Root Canal Treatment in Fulham

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a specialised procedure designed to save a damaged or infected tooth by removing the affected tissue from inside the tooth and sealing it to prevent further problems. Despite its reputation, modern root canal treatment is a safe, effective, and comfortable way to preserve your natural smile.

At Pure Smiles in Fulham, we offer clear and reliable guidance to help you understand when root canal treatment is needed, how the process works, and what to expect during recovery.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

At the centre of every tooth is a soft tissue called the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, trauma, or a crack, it can cause significant discomfort and eventually lead to an abscess if left untreated. Root canal treatment involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing the space with a biocompatible material.

Rather than removing the entire tooth, this treatment allows the root structure to remain in place, helping to preserve the function and alignment of the rest of your teeth. It also prevents the need for more extensive procedures like tooth extraction and replacement.

Thanks to modern techniques and materials, root canal therapy is more comfortable than ever and can often be completed in one or two visits.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Recognising the signs of a tooth infection or pulp inflammation early can help you avoid more severe complications. While symptoms vary, some of the most common indicators include:

Persistent Pain or Throbbing

Ongoing pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, may be a sign of infection inside the tooth. This pain may be intermittent or constant and can sometimes radiate to the jaw or ear.

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

A lingering sensitivity to hot drinks, cold air, or sweet foods can indicate nerve involvement, especially if the sensation continues after the stimulus is removed.

Swelling or Tenderness

Swelling of the gums near the affected tooth, or a pimple-like bump that releases pus, could point to a developing abscess or infection around the tooth’s root.

Discolouration of the Tooth

A darkening or greyish tint on a single tooth can suggest internal damage or breakdown of the pulp tissue, often following trauma or decay.

Cracks or Trauma

If a tooth has been chipped, cracked, or otherwise injured, bacteria can enter the inner layers of the tooth and lead to infection over time.

Even in the absence of symptoms, X-rays or routine examinations can sometimes reveal problems with the tooth’s root that may require intervention.

What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is typically completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case and the condition of the tooth.

Initial Assessment and Imaging

The process begins with a thorough examination and X-rays to assess the extent of the infection and to map the shape of the root canals.

Local Anaesthesia

A local anaesthetic is administered to ensure the procedure is entirely pain-free. The affected tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed.

Access and Removal of Infected Tissue

A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected or inflamed tissue is carefully removed, and the inner canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using specialised instruments.

Filling and Sealing the Canals

Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, which seals the space and prevents bacteria from re-entering. The access point is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.

Final Restoration

In many cases, a crown is recommended after a root canal to provide long-term strength and protection to the treated tooth, particularly if the tooth has lost significant structure.

Throughout the treatment, great care is taken to ensure your comfort, and detailed aftercare instructions are provided to support healing.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following root canal treatment, it’s normal to experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days, especially when chewing. This discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and typically resolves within a week.

Avoid Chewing on the Treated Tooth

Until the final restoration or crown is placed, try to avoid biting on the treated tooth to prevent damage or re-infection.

Maintain Daily Oral Hygiene

Continue to brush and floss as normal, keeping the area clean to support healing. Avoid aggressive brushing directly over the treated tooth.

Attend Follow-Up Appointments

If a crown or further restoration is planned, returning for this step is essential to protect the treated tooth in the long term.

Root canal treatment has a high success rate, and with proper care, the restored tooth can last as long as your natural teeth.

Need Relief from Tooth Pain?

If you’re experiencing a toothache, swelling, or sensitivity, root canal treatment could help save your tooth and restore your oral health. At Pure Smiles in Fulham, we aim to make the process simple, gentle, and reassuring.

Contact our team today to arrange an appointment or learn more about your treatment options. A calm, healthy smile could be just one step away.