Root canal treatment at SMH Dental Care
Saving natural teeth—with care and confidence
If a tooth becomes deeply decayed, cracked, or has undergone repeated restoration, bacteria may enter the root canals and infect the soft inner pulp. Root canal treatment is a highly effective solution that removes the infection, disinfects the tooth, and seals it with specialist dental material—all while keeping your natural tooth intact.
This treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic and typically requires 2 to 3 appointments, each lasting around 45 minutes.
When is root canal treatment needed?
You might need root canal therapy if you’re experiencing:
- Long-lasting sensitivity to heat or cold
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Tooth discolouration
- A persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Deep decay or damage to a tooth
If left untreated, the infection can cause severe pain, swelling, and even loss of supporting bone.
Benefits of root canal treatment
Root canal treatment allows us to save a tooth that might otherwise need removing. Although the inner pulp is removed, the tooth continues to function normally and can last for years with proper care.
What’s involved in the procedure?
- We begin with local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable
- The infected pulp is gently removed
- Specialised hand or rotary files are used to clean and shape the canals
- The canals are flushed with an antibacterial solution
- We seal the tooth with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha
- The tooth is then restored—either with a filling or a crown, depending on the level of damage
Does it hurt?
Most patients say it’s no worse than getting a regular filling. You may feel a bit of tenderness afterward as the surrounding tissues settle—this usually passes quickly and can be eased with over-the-counter pain relief.
Experiencing tooth pain or swollen gums? Let’s take a closer look—book your root canal consultation online or call us on 01273 453 109 to speak with our caring team.