Root canal treatments at A1 Dental Surgery remove infected pulp, disinfect the root canals and seal the tooth, preventing the need for extraction and preserving your natural smile.
In the UK, over a million root canal procedures are performed each year, making it one of the most common dental treatments. An estimated 74% of treated teeth remain functional without re-treatment or extraction over the next ten years, highlighting the long-term success of modern endodontic techniques.
Furthermore, approximately one-third of UK adults have undergone at least one root canal filling in their lifetime, underscoring the prevalence of this tooth-saving therapy.
What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, involves cleaning out the infected or inflamed pulp inside your tooth, shaping the root canals and filling them with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
This process eradicates bacteria, relieves pain and halts the spread of infection, allowing the tooth to remain functional and structurally sound.
How Does A1 Dental Surgery Perform Root Canals?
At our Canterbury practice, we begin with a thorough clinical and radiographic assessment to confirm the extent of infection. After applying local anaesthetic (or offering Sedation Dentistry for anxious patients), we isolate the tooth with a rubber dam to keep it dry and sterile.
Using precision endodontic files and magnification loupes, our GDC-registered dentists gently remove diseased pulp, irrigate the canals with disinfectant solutions and then seal them with gutta-percha. Finally, we place a temporary or permanent restoration—often a bespoke crown—to protect the tooth from fracture.
Why Choose Root Canal over Extraction?
Opting for a root canal rather than extraction preserves your natural tooth, which is always preferable to an artificial replacement.
Retaining your own tooth maintains normal biting forces and chewing efficiency, helps prevent neighbouring teeth from drifting out of alignment and protects your jawbone from resorption. In many cases, a root-canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Most patients report that root canal treatments are no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. We use advanced local anaesthetics and can arrange Oral Sedation if required.
Throughout the procedure, you’ll be fully monitored and supported by our compassionate team. Any post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
How Do I Care for My Tooth after a Root Canal?
After treatment, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with a soft-bristle brush, flossing daily and attending regular Hygiene Prevention appointments.
Avoid chewing on very hard foods until your final restoration is in place. If you experience any unusual pain or swelling, contact us immediately for a follow-up.
Who Is Suitable for a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is ideal for teeth with deep decay, cracks that have allowed bacteria to infiltrate or traumatised teeth that have suffered pulp damage.
During your consultation, we’ll review your medical and dental history, take digital X-rays and discuss all treatment options, ensuring root canal therapy is the best course of action for your individual needs.
How Do I Book My Root Canal Consultation?
Ready to save your natural tooth? Visit our Root Canal Treatment page to learn more, or call us on 01227 765 851 to arrange a consultation. You can also explore patient testimonials on our Testimonials page to hear how root canal therapy has transformed smiles and relieved pain for others.
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