The Root Canal is a layer of pulp that runs through the root and teeth which contains nerves and blood vessels. The pulp can become diseased or damaged over time, which can lead to infection if not treated soon enough. An infection can be very painful and then lead to an abscess. Root Canal treatment then becomes necessary. It involves the removal of the infected pulp and then then cleaning or sealing of the root canal itself. A crown can then be fitted onto the decayed tooth, to prevent any future infection and improve oral structure.
If left untreated, it’s highly likely that you will eventually lose the tooth and need a dental implant in it’s place.
The treatment of dental root canals is called “Endodontistry” and should in all cases be carried out by a specialist like ours (Dr. Mark or Dr. Robert) under digital microscope to ensure its success. All root canal work is fully guaranteed for 5 years in our dental clinic.
How do I know if I need root canal treatment?
You might need a root canal if:
- The tooth hurts when you bite down on it, touch it or push on it
- The tooth is sensitive to heat
- The tooth is sensitive to cold for more than a couple of seconds
- There is swelling near the tooth
- The tooth is discolored (whether it hurts or not)
- The tooth is broken
Do different teeth have different numbers of root canals?
Teeth in the front of the mouth called incisors and canines usually have one root, and one nerve canal within the root. Teeth on the side of the mouth called premolars usually have one or two roots and one or two root canals. The upper back teeth (molars) usually have three roots, and three or four root canals. Lower back teeth (molars) usually have two roots and three or four root canals. Generally speaking, the more nerve canals the tooth has, the more complicated the root canal is to complete.
How much does root canal treatment cost?
Root canal treatment currently costs at our dental holiday clinic in Slovakia (2012) £87 per canal, or £117 if the root canal needs retreating after being worked on by another dentist.
We don’t perform root canal treatment on wisdom teeth.
How long does root canal treatment take?
We can carry out root canal treatment in a one day visit.