Decay or trauma to teeth can sometimes lead to bacteria entering a tooth’s root canal. This can infect the pulp - the soft tissue located in the root canal deep inside the tooth. The infection, which occurs as a result, can cause the ‘death’ of the pulp. If the pulp is infected, it needs to be removed to prevent bacteria spreading into the jaw bone.

Unpleasant at the best of times, infection can lead to:

• Tooth pain
• Soreness and swelling in the surrounding gum
• Loss of the affected tooth
• Damage to or permanent loss of the bone in which the tooth is embedded

Root canal treatment involves the removal of infection, a process that may occur over one or more appointments. We may also recommend an indirect restoration or a dental crown to help seal and strengthen the tooth once the root canal has proven to be successful.

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