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Kent Emergency Dentist
01474 639 111

Tooth pain can often be a sign that something is happening deep inside the tooth.

When decay, injury, or infection reaches the inner pulp of a tooth, it can cause severe discomfort and put the tooth at risk of being lost. In these situations, a root canal treatment may be the best way to save the tooth and restore its function.

At Kent Emergency Dentist, we provide urgent and routine root canal treatments across Maidstone, Canterbury, Ashford, Dartford, Tunbridge Wells, and other locations in Kent. Our aim is to help patients find relief from pain and keep their natural teeth wherever possible.

What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a procedure used to treat an infection inside a tooth. Each tooth has a soft inner tissue called the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria reach this area, usually through deep decay, cracks, or untreated cavities, the pulp becomes infected.

If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to an abscess, swelling, and even tooth loss. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further problems.

Why you might need a root canal
There are several reasons a dentist may recommend a root canal:

  • Severe toothache, often worsening when chewing or applying pressure.
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers after the source is removed.
  • Swelling or tenderness around the gums.
  • A tooth that has darkened due to trauma or nerve damage.
  • Abscesses are visible on an X-ray.

Not every case of tooth pain means a root canal is needed, but these are common warning signs.

The root canal procedure – Step by step
A root canal is carefully carried out over one or sometimes two appointments, depending on the extent of the infection. The process generally involves:

  • Examination and X-rays – The dentist examines the tooth and surrounding area and takes X-rays to see how far the infection has spread.
  • Anaesthesia – A local anaesthetic is given to numb the area, ensuring the treatment is comfortable.
  • Access to the pulp – The dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to reach the infected tissue.
  • Cleaning and shaping – The infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and shaped to prepare it for sealing.
  • Filling the root canals – The cleaned canals are filled with a special material to seal them and prevent bacteria from re-entering.
  • Restoring the tooth – In most cases, a crown is recommended after a root canal to protect the tooth and restore its strength.

Does a root canal hurt?
Many patients worry that root canal treatment will be painful, but modern techniques and effective anaesthesia mean it usually feels similar to having a standard filling. In fact, the treatment is designed to relieve pain caused by infection, not cause more. Some mild tenderness after treatment is normal, but this usually improves within a few days.

Benefits of root canal treatment
Root canal treatment has several important benefits:

  • Saves the natural tooth – avoiding the need for extraction.
  • Relieves pain and discomfort caused by infection.
  • Prevents the spread of infection to other teeth or areas of the mouth.
  • Restores normal chewing function and appearance when completed with a crown.

By saving the tooth rather than removing it, root canal treatment supports long-term oral health and helps maintain a natural smile.

Aftercare and recovery
Following treatment, your dentist will provide guidance on caring for the tooth. This often includes:

  • Avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored with a crown.
  • Maintaining good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing.
  • Attending follow-up appointments as advised.
  • Taking mild pain relief if needed in the first few days.

Most patients recover quickly, and with proper care, a tooth treated with root canal therapy can last for many years.

Call Kent Emergency Dentist now to Book a Same-day Appointment
Contact us Hotline: 01474 639 111

We welcome patients across Kent 24/7.

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Whether it’s a cracked tooth, lost filling, or swelling, our friendly team helps patients like you every single day.

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Important Information

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If you’re experiencing severe pain, facial swelling, or dental trauma, call us immediately on 01474 639 111.

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  • Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed.
  • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
  • Bring a list of current medications.
  • If a tooth is knocked out, keep it moist.

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This practice is regulated by the General Dental Council. All practitioners are GDC-registered professionals. Treatment options and outcomes will be discussed with patients prior to any procedure.

Important Information
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Don’t wait for your pain to get worse. Book your appointment today

Delaying care can lead to serious infections and complications.

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