Root canal treatment (endodontics) is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth, saving it from extraction. At Pure Smiles in Fulham, we use CBCT 3D scanning and modern rotary instruments to make root canal treatment a comfortable, predictable procedure — not the painful ordeal many patients expect.
Root canal treatment is not a painful last resort. It is a routine, tooth-saving procedure that eliminates infection and restores full function. With modern anaesthetics and techniques, most patients at our SW6 practices report the experience is no worse than having a filling placed.
A tooth needs root canal treatment when bacteria reach the pulp — the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. This can happen through deep decay, a crack, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or trauma.
| Symptom | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Persistent toothache (throbbing or sharp) | Pulp inflammation or infection |
| Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold | Nerve damage inside the tooth |
| Darkening or discolouration of the tooth | Pulp tissue is dying |
| Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums | Abscess forming at the root tip |
| A small pimple (sinus tract) on the gum | Draining infection from the root |
| Pain when biting or chewing | Inflammation around the root tip |
If you recognise any of these symptoms, contact Pure Smiles in Fulham as soon as possible. Early treatment prevents the infection from spreading to surrounding bone and neighbouring teeth. Left untreated, a dental abscess can become a serious health concern. learn more
Dr Ayzaaz Akram (BDS Liverpool 1995, GDC 70996) and the team at Pure Smiles have carried out root canal treatments for over 15 years across both Fulham locations. Here is what the procedure involves, step by step.
Before any treatment begins, we take a CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scan of the affected tooth. Unlike a standard dental X-ray, a CBCT scan produces a detailed 3D image of the tooth, roots and surrounding bone. This allows us to see exactly how many canals the tooth has, their shape, and the extent of the infection — ensuring the highest level of accuracy before we begin. learn more
We administer a local anaesthetic to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. Once the area is fully numb, a small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
Using specialist rotary instruments, the infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed from the pulp chamber and root canals. Each canal is then cleaned, shaped and disinfected with an antibacterial solution to eliminate all bacteria.
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection. A temporary or permanent filling is placed on top.
In many cases, a tooth that has had root canal treatment will need a learn moredental crown to protect it and restore its full strength. We will discuss the best restoration option for your specific tooth at your appointment.
Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Here is what to expect during recovery:
If you experience severe pain, swelling that worsens after 48 hours, or your bite feels uneven, contact Pure Smiles immediately on 020 7736 6276.
Some patients ask whether it is better to simply have the tooth removed. In almost all cases, saving the natural tooth is the preferred option.
| Factor | Root Canal Treatment | Tooth Extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Preserves natural tooth | Yes | No |
| Maintains jawbone density | Yes | Bone loss begins after extraction |
| Treatment time | 1-2 appointments | 1 appointment + replacement planning |
| Long-term cost | Lower (crown needed) | Higher (implant, bridge or denture) |
| Appearance | Natural look maintained | Requires prosthetic replacement |
| Chewing function | Fully restored | Reduced until tooth replaced |
Root canal treatment followed by a crown can last a lifetime with proper care, making it the most cost-effective and functional long-term solution. learn more
Pure Smiles is a family-run dental practice established in 2009 with two locations in Fulham, South West London. Our approach to root canal treatment reflects the standards we apply across all our care:
If you are experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need root canal treatment, do not delay. Early treatment is simpler, faster and more comfortable. Contact Pure Smiles today:
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No. Modern root canal treatment at Pure Smiles in Fulham is carried out under local anaesthetic, meaning you should feel no pain during the procedure. Most patients say it feels similar to having a filling. Any mild soreness afterwards typically resolves within 48 hours with standard pain relief.
A straightforward root canal treatment usually takes 60 to 90 minutes in a single appointment. More complex cases — such as molars with multiple canals — may require a second visit. Our CBCT scanning technology helps us plan efficiently so treatment is as quick as possible.
The cost of root canal treatment varies depending on which tooth is affected (front teeth have fewer canals than molars) and the complexity of the case. We provide a clear treatment plan and cost breakdown before starting any work. Contact Pure Smiles on 020 7736 6276 for a consultation and personalised quote.
Without treatment, the infection inside the tooth will continue to spread. The pulp tissue will die, an abscess can form at the root tip, and the infection may spread to the jawbone and surrounding teeth. In severe cases, untreated dental infections can affect your general health. The tooth will eventually need extraction — a more invasive and costly outcome than root canal treatment.
Reinfection is uncommon but possible, particularly if the tooth develops a new crack, the restoration fails, or not all canals were treated initially. At Pure Smiles, our use of CBCT 3D scanning significantly reduces this risk by ensuring every canal is identified and treated. If reinfection does occur, retreatment or a minor surgical procedure (apicoectomy) can usually resolve the problem.
