Root canal treatment is a widely used dental procedure aimed at saving teeth that are damaged or infected. Many people are unsure about what the treatment involves, how long it will take, and what to expect during recovery. At Ferry Dental Centre in Ocean Village, Southampton, we provide professional and thorough care to ensure your comfort and a successful outcome, guiding you through every step of the process.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a treatment designed to address infection or damage within a tooth’s pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and lead to more serious dental issues if left untreated. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue, cleans the interior of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further damage. This procedure helps patients retain their natural teeth while restoring function and relieving discomfort.

Key benefits of a root canal include:

• Eliminating infection from the tooth’s interior
• Preserving the natural tooth structure
• Reducing or eliminating toothache and sensitivity
• Preventing the spread of infection to surrounding teeth or gums
• Preparing the tooth for additional restorations, such as a crown, if needed

The Root Canal Procedure

Root canal treatment typically involves several steps, all carried out under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort:

• Assessment and Planning: Your dentist will examine the affected tooth, often taking X-rays to assess the extent of infection or damage.
• Cleaning and Shaping: The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the canals are cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling.
• Filling and Sealing: A biocompatible material is used to fill the canals, sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection.
• Restoration: To protect the tooth and restore full function, it is often fitted with a crown or filling.

Most treatments can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. Modern dental techniques and tools have made the procedure more precise and comfortable, with recovery time usually minimal.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following treatment, mild sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth is common for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Maintaining good oral hygiene, regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups is essential for long-term success and to prevent further complications.

Benefits and Considerations

A root canal can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. By removing infection and preserving your tooth, it helps maintain proper bite alignment and overall oral health. Early treatment can prevent the need for more complex dental procedures later on, helping to maintain long-term dental function.

While the procedure is highly effective, the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment and whether additional restorations, like crowns, are needed. Your dentist will provide a detailed treatment plan and discuss options tailored to your needs, so you understand what to expect before beginning the procedure.

Why Choose Ferry Dental Centre

At Ferry Dental Centre in Ocean Village, Southampton, we prioritise patient comfort, accuracy, and long-term oral health. Our experienced team uses advanced technology to support precise and predictable root canal treatment.

We carry out root canal procedures using dental microscopes, which allow enhanced visualisation of the tooth’s internal structure. This level of magnification supports accurate cleaning and sealing of even complex root canal systems.

Where appropriate, we also use CBCT scanning to provide a detailed 3D assessment of the tooth and surrounding structures. This technology helps with diagnosis, treatment planning, and identifying root canal anatomy that may not be visible on standard X-rays.

By combining clinical expertise with modern equipment, we aim to deliver thorough care while preserving natural teeth whenever possible. To book an appointment or discuss your options, call Ferry Dental Centre on 02380 332255 and take the first step towards restoring your oral health.