Hearing the words “root canal” may make you feel uneasy, but modern dentistry has transformed this once-feared procedure into a more comfortable and effective way to save a damaged tooth. At The Bristol Dental Practice, we understand that dental treatments can seem daunting, but our experienced team ensure a smooth and pain-free experience for our patients. 

 

A root canal is not something to fear – it’s a solution that relieves pain, eliminates infection, and restores your tooth’s function. A root canal could be the key to preserving your smile if you’re experiencing persistent toothache, sensitivity, or swelling. 

 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about root canal treatment, from recognising when you might need it, to understand the procedure and recovery. Our goal is to put your mind at ease and help you make informed decisions about your oral health. 

 

What is a Root Canal? 

Root canal treatment, also known as Endodontics, is a highly effective procedure designed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged by decay, disease, or injury. Rather than extracting the affected tooth, a root canal helps to remove infection and restore function – allowing you to keep your natural smile. 

 

Saving the natural tooth is always preferable, as it generally functions better than an artificial replacement, and helps to maintain the structure of your jaw and bite. 

 

If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity or discomfort, it may be a sign that you need root canal treatment. The risk of infection and decay increases if the tooth is: 

 

• Cracked or damaged due to trauma
• Affected by deep decay that has reached the pulp
• Compromised by large fillings that weaken the tooth structure

 

Root canal treatment not only alleviates pain but can also help to prevent further complications, ensuring your tooth remains strong and healthy for years to come. 

 

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Root canal treatment is necessary when an infection develops deep inside the tooth, affecting the blood or nerve supply. This can occur due to injury, cavities or untreated decay, allowing bacteria to spread into the root canals. 

 

In the early stages, you might not experience any pain or discomfort, which is why many infections go unnoticed. However, as the infection progresses, you may begin to notice symptoms such as: 

 

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers.
• Discomfort when biting or chewing due to pressure on the tooth. 
• A change in tooth colour, which could indicate nerve damage. 
• Swollen or tender gums around the affected tooth. 
• A small bump on the gum near the painful tooth, a possible sign of an abscess.

 

If left untreated, the infection can become extremely painful, leading to an abscess in the jaw bone or even tooth loss. A root canal treatment removes the bacteria inside the tooth, disinfects the root canals, and seals the area to prevent further infection. Despite common misconceptions, the procedure is minimally invasive – a small opening is created in the tooth to access and treat the infection effectively. 

 

Seeking prompt treatment is essential, as delaying care can allow the infection to worsen, causing significant pain and potential complications. 

 

The Root Canal Procedure

At The Bristol Dental Practice, we take every step to ensure your root canal treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. Before beginning the procedure, we conduct a thorough assessment to confirm that root canal treatment is necessary. 

 

Step 1: Diagnosis and Assessment

• A digital X-ray is taken to assess the condition of the tooth.
• In some cases, a CBCT scan may be used to capture highly detailed images of the tooth’s internal structure, helping us plan the best course of treatment. 
• Our team will explain the procedure in detail and answer any concerns to ensure you feel informed and at ease. 

 

Step 2: Pain-Free Treatment 

Many people worry about pain during a root canal, but with modern anaesthetic techniques, the procedure is painless. We will: 

 

• Numb the affected area with a local anaesthetic. 
• Ensure you feel no discomfort during the procedure. 
• Provide sedation options for patients who feel anxious or find dental treatment difficult to cope with. 

 

Step 3: Cleaning and Sealing the Tooth

• A small opening is made in the tooth to access the infected pulp. 
• The infection is carefully removed, and the root canals are disinfected to eliminate bacteria. 
• The cleaned space is then sealed and filled to prevent further infection. 

 

Step 4: Restoration and Recovery

• In most cases, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and function. 
• Numbness typically wears off within an hour after treatment. 
• Any post-treatment discomfort is mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. 

 

At The Bristol Dental Practice, we use the best materials, equipment, and magnification technology to ensure the highest level of care. Our root canal dentist, Justin, holds both an MClinDent and Diploma in Endodontics, with a special focus on complex cases. You can rest assured that you’ll receive great treatment in a comfortable and stress-free environment. 

 

If you have any concerns about pain or the procedure itself, our friendly team is always happy to answer your questions and guide you through the treatment process step by step. 

Book a Consultation Today

Root canal treatment is a highly effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth, preventing further complications while restoring its function and appearance. Thanks to modern techniques, advanced technology, and expert care, the procedure is now comfortable and pain-free. At The Bristol Dental Practice, our team are dedicated to ensuring a smooth experience, from diagnosis to recovery. 

 

If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Early treatment can help prevent more serious issues like abscesses or tooth loss. 

 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced root canal team. Let us help you preserve your natural smile with professional and compassionate care. 

To book a consultation, book online here. Or,  if you’re an existing patient call us on 0117 910 5929 or if you are a new patient, call us on 0117 405 8110.