A root canal treatment is one of the most commonly performed dental procedures. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and avoid the need for dental implants or bridges.

At the center of each tooth is the pulp, a network of blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. The pulp may become infected due to trauma to the tooth, a deep cavity, cracks, or wear caused by teeth grinding.

Symptoms of infection include swelling of the gums, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and severe pain in the tooth and gums.

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will probably recommend root canal therapy to remove the infected pulp. The damaged pulp is eliminated, the canals of the root are carefully cleaned and then sealed. The procedure is generally carried out under local anaesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits to CESL, depending on the urgency of treatment.

This procedure is successful in 90% of cases. If it is impossible to carry out the treatment or the chance of a successful result is low, or if a complication arises during or after treatment, your CESL endodontist will let you know as soon as possible.

You will be given a local anaesthetic to prevent any pain. You will be able to drive after the procedure, and are usually capable of resuming your regular activities.

Your endodontist will see you 6 months after your root canal therapy for a brief follow-up visit. In addition, a record of your treatment will be sent to your dentist, whom you should contact a few weeks following treatment. Your dentist will tell you what type of final restoration you will need to protect your tooth.

The cost of a root canal treatment varies depending on a number of factors such as the severity of the infection, and the type and location of the tooth affected. In general, endodontic treatment is less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.