Root canal treatment may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. The treatment aims to clean and seal the root canal system while preserving the natural tooth where clinically possible.
Root canal treatment removes inflamed or infected tissue from inside a tooth. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, filled and sealed. The aim is to treat the affected tooth and retain it where possible, although further treatment or extraction may sometimes be required.
Root canal treatment may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected because of deep decay, a crack, trauma or previous dental treatment. Symptoms may include toothache, sensitivity, tenderness, swelling or an abscess, although some affected teeth cause few symptoms. Contact the practice promptly if you develop facial swelling, worsening pain, fever or difficulty swallowing.
Magnification and dental imaging may be used to support examination and treatment. Local anaesthetic is normally provided, and your dentist will explain the planned procedure, possible risks and alternative options before treatment begins.
Your dentist will examine the tooth and may take dental X-rays where clinically appropriate to assess the roots, surrounding bone and extent of the problem.
Local anaesthetic is normally used to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Some patients may still experience pressure or temporary discomfort, and the dentist can pause or provide further anaesthetic where appropriate.
The inflamed or infected pulp is removed, and the canal system is cleaned and shaped. Treatment may take more than one appointment depending on the tooth, infection and canal anatomy.
Once cleaned and shaped, the canals are filled and sealed to reduce the risk of bacteria entering the tooth again. A temporary or permanent restoration may then be placed.
After root canal treatment, the tooth requires an appropriate final restoration. Depending on the remaining tooth structure and bite, this may be a filling, onlay or crown. Your dentist will explain which option is recommended and whether it involves a separate appointment.

The tooth may feel tender or sensitive for a short period after treatment. Follow the aftercare instructions provided and avoid chewing heavily on the tooth until the final restoration is complete. Contact the practice if pain or swelling is severe, worsening or does not begin to settle.
Root canal treatment may allow an affected tooth to be retained. Long-term performance depends on the tooth’s condition, the quality of the final restoration, oral hygiene, bite and ongoing dental care. Root-treated teeth may still require repair, retreatment or extraction in the future.
Schedule your appointment today and experience the Kington Dental difference. We provide flexible payment and financing options, ensuring a stress-free dental experience
Kington Dental are a leading private dental practice servicing all of Herefordshire and Powys. We provide advanced dentistry, teeth straightening, dental implants and more to Herefordshire, Including:
Practice
Opening Hours:
Parking
Free on-site parking including
disabled bays and wheelchair access
For an urgent dental problem during our opening hours, call 01544 231571 as early as possible. Appointment availability cannot be guaranteed, but our team will advise you on the appropriate next step.
© ---- Kington Dental Practice. All rights reserved
Privacy & Cookie Policy | Terms of Use | CQC | GDC | Complaints Policy
designed and maintained by dentopia marketing
website last updated on 03/07/2026