Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Treatment

At Heathwood Dental Practice, we understand that needing a root canal can feel daunting, but our team is here to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. With our team’s expertise and our state-of-the-art dental microscope—the only one in Crowthorne—we ensure precision, success, and a comfortable experience. Our goal is to help you keep your natural tooth and restore your smile with confidence.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, is a procedure that removes infection from inside the tooth, preventing pain and saving the tooth from extraction. When the pulp (the nerve and blood supply of the tooth) becomes infected due to decay or injury, the infection can spread and cause abscesses. Left untreated, this can lead to severe pain and even tooth loss.

At Heathwood Dental Practice, we prioritise your comfort and use the latest technology to carefully clean, disinfect, and seal the root canals, ensuring long-lasting results.

What Can I Expect from Root Canal Treatment?

• Consultation & Diagnosis – Your dentist will assess your tooth with an X-ray to check for infection and plan your treatment.
• Comfort & Anaesthetic – We will numb the area using local anaesthetic so you feel comfortable throughout.
• Cleaning & Disinfection – A small opening is made in the tooth to access and remove the infected tissue. The root canals are then cleaned and disinfected.
• Sealing the Tooth – Once the canals are fully cleaned, we seal them with a rubber-like material to prevent re-infection.
• Final Restoration – To strengthen and protect your tooth, we will place a filling, onlay, or crown at a follow-up appointment.

Most treatments take 90 to 120 minutes, and in some cases, a second visit is required to fully eliminate the infection.

What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Treatment?

• Saves Your Natural Tooth – Avoiding extraction helps maintain your bite and smile.
• Prevents Pain & Infection – Removes the source of infection, stopping further spread.
• Long-Term Solution – With proper care, a treated tooth can last a lifetime.
• Advanced Precision – Using a dental microscope, your dentist ensures accuracy and high success rates.

Am I a Candidate for Root Canal Treatment?

You might need a root canal if you have:

• Severe tooth pain (especially when biting or chewing).
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers.
• Swollen gums or a pimple-like bump near the tooth.
• A deep cavity or cracked tooth leading to infection.

At Heathwood Dental Practice, we will assess your symptoms and guide you through the best treatment plan for your needs.

What Are the Risks and Complications?

Root canal treatment is highly successful, but as with any medical procedure, there are some risks:

• Tooth Fracture – Treated teeth can become more brittle, which is why we often recommend a crown or onlay.
• Residual Infection – In rare cases, a reinfection may occur, requiring further treatment.
• Mild Discomfort – Some tenderness is normal post-treatment, but this is temporary and manageable with standard pain relief.

At Heathwood Dental, we use modern techniques and technology to minimise these risks and provide the best possible care.