Root canal treatment aims to retain a tooth when the soft tissue inside it has become inflamed or infected. Dental pain does not automatically mean a root canal is needed, so diagnosis comes first. At Emergency Dentist Kensington, the dentist will explain the condition of your tooth, the options for managing it and whether treatment can be provided or a referral is appropriate. Care is private, with fees discussed before you decide. If you are nervous about attending, let the team know when arranging your visit. You can explain what you find difficult, ask for a pause during the assessment and discuss the proposed care at your own pace. Bring any recent dental information you have, and mention allergies or changes in your medicines. The advice on this page is general; the instructions given by your treating dentist take priority.
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Understanding the problem
Deep decay, a leaking restoration or a cracked tooth can allow bacteria to reach the pulp. Trauma can also damage this tissue, sometimes long after the original injury. Inside the roots are small canals that need cleaning and sealing if treatment is appropriate. Antibiotics alone cannot remove the source of an infection within the tooth and are used only for specific clinical indications.
When to arrange an assessment
Symptoms may include lingering sensitivity, pain at night, tenderness on biting or a swelling near the root. Some affected teeth have little pain and are identified during assessment. The dentist reviews your symptoms, tests the tooth and may take X-rays to distinguish pulp problems from gum disease or other causes of dental pain. No single symptom confirms the diagnosis on its own.
Assessment and treatment options
Local anaesthetic is used to keep treatment comfortable. The dentist accesses the pulp space, removes affected tissue and cleans and shapes the canals before filling and sealing them. A temporary restoration may be needed between visits. A permanent filling or crown then protects the tooth, depending on its condition. Treatment can take more than one appointment and complex cases may need specialist care. Alternatives, including extraction when appropriate, are discussed along with expected benefits, limitations and follow-up.
Your emergency appointment and fees
A private emergency appointment at Emergency Dentist Kensington costs £95 for a comprehensive emergency assessment with a dentist. The assessment helps establish the cause of your symptoms and the next appropriate step. Further treatment is charged separately, and the team will explain the proposed care and associated costs before you agree to it. Do not assume that a repair or procedure is included in the assessment fee. You can call 020 4652 9565 or use our online portal to check appointment availability.
Looking after your oral health
Protect the treated tooth with the restoration recommended by your dentist and maintain daily cleaning around it. Attend reviews so healing and the seal can be checked. Treat new decay or damaged fillings promptly, and discuss a protective appliance if you grind. Root-treated teeth still need ongoing care and can develop new problems, so report changes rather than waiting for a routine appointment.