A root canal is a safe and effective way to relieve pain and save your natural tooth. If you’re suffering from severe toothache, swelling, or sensitivity in Aberdeen, root canal therapy could be the right solution. This modern treatment can restore your comfort and help preserve your smile for years to come.
What Is a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment, also called endodontic therapy, removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth. The inner pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that can become infected due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental work. Removing this infection relieves pain and helps protect your remaining tooth structure.
What’s the Difference Between Private and NHS Dentist?
Why Choose a Root Canal?
Choosing a root canal instead of extraction allows you to keep your natural tooth. It’s a cost-effective treatment that maintains your bite alignment, supports jaw health, and prevents neighbouring teeth from moving. With today’s advanced techniques, the treatment is quick, efficient, and designed to minimise discomfort.
Step-by-Step Root Canal Procedure
- Examination and Imaging – Your dentist examines the tooth and takes digital X-rays to locate infection and assess damage.
- Anaesthesia – A local anaesthetic ensures a pain-free experience.
- Accessing the Pulp – A small opening is made to reach the infected area.
- Cleaning and Disinfection – The infected tissue is removed and the inner canal is thoroughly disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing – The canal is filled with a safe material and sealed to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration – In many cases, a crown is placed to strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
Can You Get Same Day Dentures on NHS?
Comfortable Treatment with Sedation Options
If you’re searching for the best dentist in Aberdeen who understands dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can make your visit much easier. Gentle sedation options, such as nitrous oxide or oral medication, help you stay calm and relaxed throughout your treatment. This ensures a comfortable, positive, and stress-free dental experience from start to finish.
Aftercare and Recovery Tips
After the procedure, minor tenderness may occur for a short time. Follow these simple steps for a smooth recovery:
- Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief as advised.
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s permanently restored.
- Maintain gentle brushing and flossing to keep the area clean.
- Attend your follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
What is the 2-Month Rule for NHS Dentistry?
Strengthen Your Tooth with a Dental Crown
After a root canal, your dentist may recommend placing a crown. It restores the tooth’s full function, protects it from fracture, and blends naturally with your smile. A strong, well-fitted crown ensures long-lasting results.
Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment
If a tooth is too damaged to be saved, extraction may be the only option. However, replacing it with a bridge, implant, or denture can take more time and cost more than a root canal. Whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the preferred choice for long-term oral health.
Is There a Time Limit on NHS Dental Treatment?
Root Canal Myths and Facts
Myth 1: Root canals are painful.
Fact: With modern anaesthetics, they’re no more uncomfortable than a routine filling.
Myth 2: It’s better to extract the tooth.
Fact: Keeping your natural tooth helps preserve your bite and prevents jawbone loss.
Myth 3: Root canals cause illness.
Fact: This myth has been disproven; root canal treatment is completely safe.
Benefits of Saving Your Natural Tooth
Saving your tooth maintains your ability to chew comfortably and prevents your other teeth from shifting. It also preserves your natural smile and helps maintain a strong jawbone structure.
Why Are Dentists Stopping NHS Treatment?
Professional Care You Can Trust
Modern dental technology makes root canal treatment more precise, comfortable, and reliable than ever. Dentists in Aberdeen use advanced tools and gentle techniques to ensure the best results and long-term comfort.
Smile with Confidence Again
There’s no reason to fear a root canal. Today’s procedures are quick, effective, and designed to save your natural tooth while relieving pain. Don’t delay treatment—getting help early prevents infection from spreading and protects your overall oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
No, most patients feel little or no pain during treatment due to modern anaesthetics. Any mild discomfort afterward is short-lived and easy to manage.
How long does a root canal take?
Usually one or two visits of about 60–90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.
Can a root canal fail?
While uncommon, reinfection can occur. In such cases, retreatment or a different approach can restore the tooth.
What should I eat after a root canal?
Stick to soft foods such as soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hard, crunchy, or hot foods until your tooth is fully healed.
Do I always need a crown after a root canal?
Back teeth often need a crown to prevent fractures, while front teeth may only need a filling for strength and appearance.
