Root Canal Treatment in Worthing

Root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, is used to treat the inside of a tooth when the pulp has become inflamed or infected. The aim is to remove the affected tissue, clean and seal the root canals, and retain the tooth where this is clinically possible.

This is a private dental service at the Clinic for Implant & Orthodontic Dentistry in Worthing. We assess the tooth first and explain the suitable options, likely timing and costs before treatment is agreed.

Symptoms that need assessment

Symptoms can include:

• toothache or pain when biting;

• sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers;

• swelling or tenderness around the tooth or gum;

• a spot or swelling on the gum;

• a change in the colour of the tooth; or

• a tooth that has broken or been damaged.

Some teeth that need root canal treatment cause few or no symptoms and are identified during an examination or on an X-ray. These signs can have different causes, so an examination is needed to diagnose the problem. If you have facial swelling or feel unwell, seek urgent dental advice.

Assessment and treatment planning

We will ask about your symptoms, examine the tooth and surrounding tissues, and take X-rays where clinically necessary. We will explain whether the tooth appears restorable, whether root canal treatment may be suitable, the alternatives, the likely number of appointments and the expected fees.

Suitability, timing and costs are confirmed after examination.

What does root canal treatment involve?

The tooth is isolated and an opening is made to reach the pulp space. The inflamed or infected tissue is removed, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped and disinfected. The canals are then filled and sealed. A temporary or permanent restoration may be placed, depending on the treatment plan and the stage reached.

Local anaesthetic and comfort

Root canal treatment is normally carried out using local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. We will check that you are sufficiently numb before treatment starts and ask you to let us know if you are uncomfortable. Experiences vary, and some tenderness after treatment can occur.

How many appointments might be needed?

Root canal treatment may be completed in one appointment or may require more than one. This depends on the tooth, the number and shape of its canals, the infection and whether further restorative work is needed. We will explain the likely sequence after assessment, but it may change if the clinical findings differ during treatment.

Aftercare

The tooth and surrounding area may feel tender after treatment. We will provide aftercare advice appropriate to your treatment and explain when to contact the practice. Continue routine brushing and interdental cleaning as advised, and attend any planned review or restoration appointment.

Can the tooth be retained?

The purpose of root canal treatment is to retain a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed, but this is not always possible. The condition of the tooth, the root canals, the supporting tissues and the final restoration all affect the outlook. Treatment success and how long a tooth lasts cannot be guaranteed.

Costs and restoring the tooth

Our Fees page currently lists root canal treatment (endodontic treatment) at £550. Please check that page for the current published fee. The final cost depends on the tooth and the complexity found at assessment.

After root canal treatment, a filling or crown may be advised to restore and protect the tooth. A filling or crown is priced separately. We will explain the recommended restoration and provide costs before it is carried out.

Alternatives

The alternatives depend on the condition of the tooth. They may include monitoring in limited circumstances, a different restorative approach, referral, or removing the tooth. If extraction is advised, any replacement options can be discussed separately. We will explain the reasonable options, their main benefits and limitations, and what may happen if no treatment is chosen.

Contact the Worthing practice

Call 01903 821822 to arrange an assessment at the Clinic for Implant & Orthodontic Dentistry, 7 Chapel Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1EG. You can also use our contact page or online booking page.

This page provides general information and does not replace an examination or personalised clinical advice.