Root Canal Treatment · Smith's Wood · Castle Bromwich
Save your natural tooth
A safe, well-established procedure designed to treat infection deep within a tooth, relieve pain, and help preserve your natural smile.
Call to discuss symptoms or to book an appointment
Understanding the procedure
What is root canal treatment?
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed — due to deep decay, a crack, or repeated dental work — bacteria can spread into the root canals, causing pain or abscess.
Root canal treatment involves carefully removing the infected pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. A crown or permanent restoration is usually placed afterwards to protect and restore the tooth's function.
The aim of treatment is to save your natural tooth wherever it is clinically appropriate to do so. Your dentist will always discuss all available options — including alternatives — before any treatment begins.
Signs you may need treatment
Symptoms to look out for
Severe, persistent toothache
Especially when biting or applying pressure to the tooth.
Prolonged sensitivity
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after exposure.
Swelling or tenderness
Localised swelling or tenderness in the gum near a particular tooth.
Gum abscess
A pimple-like swelling on the gum, which may indicate infection.
Tooth discolouration
A tooth that has darkened compared to its neighbours.
Detected at check-up
In some cases there are no symptoms — the issue is found via X-ray at a routine examination.
If you are in significant pain or have facial swelling, please see our emergency dental care page for guidance.
Step by step
What happens during root canal treatment?
Examination and diagnosis
Your dentist will assess the affected tooth, review X-rays, and discuss your symptoms. All options will be clearly explained so you can make an informed decision.
Local anaesthesia
The area around the tooth is numbed using a local anaesthetic. Most patients report feeling little more than pressure during the procedure.
Removing the infected pulp
A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth. The infected pulp tissue is carefully removed and the root canals gently cleaned and shaped.
Disinfection and sealing
The cleaned canals are disinfected and filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, then sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
Restoration
Once the root canals are sealed, the tooth typically requires a permanent restoration — most commonly a dental crown — to protect it and restore normal function.
Frequently asked questions
Explore more
Related treatments
Learn more about other treatments that patients often consider alongside this one.
Ready to take the next step?
Get in touch with our friendly team to arrange a consultation at a time that suits you.
Castle Bromwich Dental Care · Castle Bromwich, Birmingham