Root canal treatment: the procedure, recovery and costs

Root canal treatment treats the tissue inside a tooth when it is infected or damaged in a way that requires this treatment. It can help retain a tooth that might otherwise need removal. An examination is needed to decide whether it is suitable and whether the tooth can be restored afterwards.

When might it be recommended?

Decay or an injury can affect the pulp, the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. Symptoms may include pain with hot or cold drinks, pain on biting or swelling. Some affected teeth cause little pain, so symptoms alone do not determine the treatment.

A deep cavity, exposed pulp or tooth grinding does not automatically mean root canal treatment. Depending on the findings, other treatment may be possible. If you grind your teeth, the priority is to assess any damage and its cause; see our bruxism guide.

What does treatment involve?

The dentist examines the tooth and usually takes X-rays to assess it and plan treatment. Local anaesthetic is normally used. The affected pulp is removed, the root canals are cleaned and shaped, and they are filled and sealed. There may be more than one appointment and a temporary filling between visits.

The tooth then needs an appropriate final restoration. A filling, build-up or crown may be needed depending on how much tooth remains. Discuss this as part of the original plan, rather than assuming the canal fee covers every stage. The NHS root canal guide describes the procedure and recovery.

A microscope may help the dentist see small details during treatment. Our microscope treatment guide explains its uses and limitations. Ask whether it is proposed in your case and how the fee is calculated.

Understanding the cost

The cost depends on the tooth, complexity and whether this is initial treatment or retreatment. Our combined fees include treatment, treatment X-rays and a core build-up. For initial root canal treatment of a canine or premolar, the listed fees are:

• Without a microscope: £510.
• With a microscope: £610.

The build-up is included in both options, and the microscope is included in the second total. Crowns and onlays, if needed, are priced separately. Ask for a written estimate covering the whole proposed plan; other tooth types and retreatment have their own listed fees.

See the dentistry fee schedule and current finance information. Monthly payments depend on the total and agreed terms, so we do not quote one monthly figure for all patients.

Comfort and follow-up

Tell the dentist if you feel pain during treatment. Some soreness afterwards can occur; contact the practice if it worsens or does not settle as expected. Attend follow-up appointments and have the final restoration completed as advised. Treatment can fail or infection can recur, sometimes requiring further care.

Good daily cleaning and check-ups reduce dental risks but cannot guarantee that root canal treatment will never be needed. Contact the practice for advice about a painful tooth. Suspected abscess needs urgent dental care or NHS 111; breathing or swallowing difficulty with swelling needs 999 or A&E. See the NHS abscess guidance.