Root Canal Treatment in Worthing

Root canal treatment is needed when the soft tissue inside your tooth - called the pulp - becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or trauma. Symptoms that may indicate you need root canal treatment include persistent toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, darkening of the tooth, swelling or tenderness in the nearby gum, and a recurring spot or pimple on the gum.

First, we numb the area with local anaesthetic so you will not feel pain during the procedure. We then create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. Using specialist instruments, we carefully remove the infected tissue, clean and shape the canals, and disinfect them thoroughly. The canals are then filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. In most cases, a crown is placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its full function. Treatment may be completed in one or two visits depending on the complexity of the case.

This is the most common question we hear, and the honest answer is: no, it should not. Modern root canal treatment is performed under effective local anaesthesia, and most patients say it feels no different from having a filling. The procedure actually relieves pain by removing the source of infection. After treatment, some mild tenderness is normal for a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.

Root canal treatment has a high success rate - typically over 90%. A treated tooth can function normally for many years, especially when protected with a crown. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups help keep the treated tooth healthy long-term. In rare cases where a root canal treatment does not fully resolve the problem, retreatment or other options can be discussed.