If you are experiencing pain caused by an infection in one or more teeth, you may need a root canal.
At Pen Y Bont Dental in Bridgend, we understand that the idea of any kind of dental procedure can be daunting, especially for patients who are particularly nervous or anxious. We’ll do everything we can to put you at ease throughout your root canal treatment; our dentists will gladly talk you through what you can expect from your appointment, and the steps you’ll need to take before and after the root canal to ensure you get the best results.
You’ll be pleased to know that today’s technology makes carrying out root canals faster and more comfortable than ever before. At our practice in South Wales, we will use local anaesthetic to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding gums, so any discomfort you feel in the chair will be minimal.
A root canal treatment – which is also known as endodontic therapy – is a procedure we use to treat infection or damage within the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth). During the treatment, the infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection.
The pulp inside the tooth can become infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma from an injury. Left untreated, the infection can spread, causing pain, the formation of an abscess, or even the need for the tooth to be extracted – so it’s important to deal with the issue as quickly as possible.
For saving an infected or damaged tooth, a root canal removes bacteria, relieves pain, and restores function. At Pen Y Bont Dental, we use advanced techniques to ensure a comfortable experience, cleaning and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. This essential treatment preserves your natural smile and helps maintain long-term oral health.
How long does a root canal
treatment take?
The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. Depending on the complexity of your case, you may need to attend one or two appointments. Multi-rooted teeth, such as molars, or teeth with a severe infection may require additional time in the chair, but we’ll advise you on this after your initial consultation.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Root canal treatment has a reputation for being painful, but modern techniques and anaesthetics have made it much more comfortable. The procedure itself is usually no more uncomfortable than getting a filling, as the area is numbed before treatment. Any pain before treatment is often due to the infection, which the root canal procedure will help to alleviate.
What happens after a root
canal treatment?
After a root canal, mild soreness or discomfort may occur for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The treated tooth will need a crown or filling to restore its strength and function. Our dentists will provide you with more information on post-treatment care, which typically involves brushing and flossing your teeth daily, and avoiding chewing hard foods or objects that could damage their restorative work.
Can I eat normally after a root canal?
You should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a crown or filling, as it may be more fragile. You can eat normally once the restoration is complete. Soft foods are usually recommended in the first few days after treatment.
Will the treated tooth look different?
A tooth that has had a root canal may become slightly darker over time, but the materials and techniques we use can help to blend it seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. A crown or cosmetic treatment can also be used to restore the tooth’s appearance.
How much does a root canal
treatment cost?
The cost of your root canal treatment will sometimes depend on the tooth involved (front teeth are generally less expensive than molars), the complexity of your case, and the tooth’s location. Additional expenses for crowns or follow-up procedures may also apply. You can find our private and NHS fees here.
