All dentists can carry out a root canal treatment on any tooth in the mouth. However, there are certain instances where dentists with post graduate training in the field of endodontics would be more suited to carry out the treatment. There are three main reasons for referring to our specialist endodontics dentist:

• Difficult teeth: teeth with a complex anatomy, curved roots, very narrow root canals (caused by age, large fillings or decay) or their position in the mouth.
• Diagnosis: locating the source of the pain or discomfort to ensure the correct tooth is treated.
• Re-root treatments: A previously root treated tooth which still causes pain and discomfort would require the treatment to be redone.

Dr. Maheen Rahman our inhouse specialist Endodontist shall ensure that your treatment is handled professionally.

Why Choose an endodontist to carry out the root canal treatment?

• An endodontist has the same schooling as your regular dentist plus an additional 2-3 years of post-graduate training that's entirely focused on just performing endodontic procedures.
• This gives them a greater ability to diagnose difficult cases.
• They also use more sophisticated equipment (like surgical microscopes) to achieve successful results.
• Research studies suggest that work completed by endodontists, tends to have a higher success rate.

What does it involve?

The aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the root canal. The root is then filled to prevent infection recurring. Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. All work is carried out whilst looking into your tooth with magnification (operating microscope). Some courses of treatment may involve two or more visits.

At the first appointment the root canal is disinfected and shaped ready for the root filling. The canals will be dressed with an antibacterial paste and a temporary filling is placed on top. The tooth is then left to settle. The tooth is checked at a later visit and when all the infection has cleared, the root canals and tooth is permanently filled. Sometimes the treatment maybe completed on the same day with a final filling placed within the canals.

Will the treatment be painful?

Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anaesthetics, patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Follow the instructions given carefully. Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain, pressure or pain that lasts more than a few days, call the surgery.

What will my tooth be like after treatment?

After your treatment, you will return to your dentist, who will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. You may be asked to return to see Dr. Maheen Rahman for a review appointment some months later. She will liaise with your dentist at all stages of your treatment.

What if it doesn’t work?

Root canal treatment is usually very successful, with long-term success rates of over 85%. However, if the infection comes back other treatment, options will be discussed.

How are fees paid?

At your initial consultation visit, a plan of treatment will be devised and likely costs determined.