Root canal treatment: preparing for orthodontics

A root canal is a dental treatment that extracts infected pulp within the tooth due to a cavity. The treatment comes under the endodontic speciality, and means the study of treatment for the dental pulp.

We’ll explain in detail when a root canal is needed, how it is done and how long it lasts.

What is root canal treatment?

You might be asking, "What is the meaning of endodontics or a root canal?" To get started, it's essential to understand that endodontics is a treatment in which the dentist removes the pulp.

Pulp is a soft tissue located inside the tooth that contains the nerve, blood vessels, and tissue. Root canals are performed on molars and incisors alike. Removing the dental pulp and its contents helps to manage or stop the patient’s tooth pain.

How long does a root canal take?

Root canals are a relatively simple intervention, typically performed under local anaesthetic. It can be more complex to remove depending on the severity of the nerve damage, but it usually takes between one to two hours. In the most complex cases, it can take up to three hours.

Root canal treatment cost

The cost of a root canal treatment in the UK can vary according to several factors. However, in most cases, the price of a root canal varies between £100 to £700, approximately.

Side effects of root canal treatment

Endodontic treatment is a very common and relatively simple procedure. However, in some cases and if the proper hygiene guidelines are not followed, it can lead to an infected tooth after the root canal and cause subsequent problems.

What are the risks of a root canal?

Several implications can occur from having the procedure, and by not cleaning the area properly after treatment. From infection to ongoing pain, let’s take a look at the potential risks of root canal treatment.

Tooth loss

If the root canal has been performed incorrectly, a dead tooth can cause problems such as loss of that tooth.

Root canal infection

If the padding or capsule is not precisely made and fitted, it is possible for bacteria to use the remaining spaces to infiltrate again, thus creating new inflammation. If the root canal tooth becomes infected, it will need to be done again.

Root canal pressure pain after

A tooth or molar should not cause any problems after a root canal; in fact, it should hardly hurt. A correct and professional treatment minimises the risk of feeling pain.

There may be a slight feeling of discomfort that will completely disappear in 24-48 hours. So if your root canal tooth hurts with pressure weeks or even months later, you should contact your dentist to have it checked out.

Broken root canal tooth

A devitalised tooth is much more fragile than a "living" tooth and can result in part of the tooth breaking. If you experience a tooth breaking, contact your dentist or an endodontist as soon as possible.

The dentist or endodontist will try to save the tooth, before they suggest having the tooth extracted. Encapsulation reconstruction might be possible, or a temporary filling. Temporary fillings are often used if you have to wait for it to be replaced or swapped for a dental implant.

Gum infection after root canal

Another root canal risk is infection of the gums. This sometimes happens as a reaction of the body in response to the invasive techniques used by the dentist. It's important to see your dentist about the treated tooth if you suspect you have an infection. Left untreated, the infection could spread and cause more severe problems with your oral health.

When do you need a root canal?

This intervention is only performed in certain cases. When the patient is experiencing pain and other symptoms that can be alleviated with a root canal, it's up to the professional to determine if they need to perform any of the following:

Cracked tooth root canal

In the event of a fall or an accident, the tooth can become cracked or fractured, causing pain and demanding a root canal.

Root canal for sensitive tooth

Tooth sensitivity makes it uncomfortable and difficult to eat and drink, even foods and drinks at room temperature. So, in order to avoid pain in the sensitive tooth, the dentist will perform a root canal.

Root canals for a cavity

Root canals should be performed when a cavity has caused irreversible damage to the pulp causing necrosis (a dead tooth). Meaning if the tooth had decayed beyond repair, a root canal is the treatment.

Root canals for a granuloma

When a granuloma forms, it causes chronic inflammation in the tooth and surrounding tissues, requiring a root canal procedure.

Root canal treatment steps

Before explaining how a root canal procedure is performed, it’s important to point out that the devitalisation of a tooth is performed only after a specialist has carefully evaluated the case. 

A dentist will always try to find a less invasive solution to the patient's problem. They will let you know if the tooth is dead, decayed or damaged and explain that a root canal is the best treatment option.

When it’s time for the root canal procedure to begin, the treatment steps will look like this:

Anaesthesia

First step, anaesthesia. The root canal of the molar or tooth is carried out by applying local anaesthesia in the area to be treated and placing a dam to isolate the tooth from the others.

Root canal cleaning

Next, the dentist, using the appropriate instruments, accesses the pulp of the tooth and cleans the internal cavities. They are also disinfected with special rotary instruments.

Root canal filling

The treatment is completed by filling and compacting an insoluble and biocompatible material in the canals. In the same session, if possible, the tooth is also reconstructed.

How painful is a root canal?

The first question that most patients have is, "Does a root canal hurt and if so, how painful is it?" Endodontic treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, so the procedure is usually painless. However, in some cases, root canals can cause pain or discomfort, since the patient must have their mouth open for a while.

After the anaesthesia wears off, you can usually manage with over the counter pain medication. The pain usually goes away after a few days. If, after a root canal, the treated area hurts a lot or the pain is persistent, it’s best to consult a professional.

How long does a root canal last?

On the flip side of how long a root canal takes, you’ll also want to know how long it lasts. If the intervention is carried out by a qualified professional and, above all, if the patient maintains correct oral hygiene, a root canal can last up to fifteen years.

So when discussing how long a root canal lasts, it’s important to note that it’s up to you as the patient to extend its life. To keep it in perfect condition for as long as possible, we recommend that you carry out regular check-ups at your dentist's office.

Orthodontics and endodontics

If you want to straighten your teeth but think you need an endodontic treatment first, we recommend consulting a specialist first. Our specialists will guide you through any necessary pre-treatments if you want to come for a free orthodontic evaluation. You will leave us knowing exactly what to do before starting treatment with Impress.

For more information, please contact us via WhatsApp, phone at +44 20 3808 1072, or complete our online form. Our invisible orthodontics will enable you to achieve a smile with aligned teeth, just as you have always dreamed of. We’ll be waiting for you at your nearest Impress clinic!

Updated: October 2025