Root Canal Treatment in Archway, North London
Root canal treatment has an undeserved reputation for being painful. In reality, modern endodontics — using the Wand computerised anaesthesia system that we use at Blue Light Dental — is no more uncomfortable than having a routine filling. The treatment saves teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted, restoring them to full health and function.
When is root canal treatment needed?
Root canal treatment is required when the soft tissue inside the tooth (the pulp) becomes infected or inflamed — usually as a result of deep decay, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental procedures. Without treatment, the infection can spread to surrounding bone and cause a dental abscess.
Signs you may need root canal treatment
- Severe, persistent toothache — especially when biting
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the trigger is removed
- Darkening or discolouration of the tooth
- A persistent pimple or swelling on the gum near the tooth
- Tenderness in nearby gum tissue
What does the treatment involve?
After anaesthetic is administered, we access the pulp chamber and remove infected tissue from the root canals. The canals are cleaned, shaped and sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. In most cases a crown is recommended afterwards to protect the restored tooth. Treatment usually takes one to two appointments.
Frequently asked questions
Will it hurt? No. We use the Wand computerised delivery system to administer anaesthetic slowly and precisely — most patients are surprised by how comfortable the experience is.
What happens if I leave it untreated? The infection will worsen and the tooth will likely need extraction. Extracting a tooth creates further problems — and replacing it costs significantly more than saving it with root canal treatment.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, call us on 020 8340 0666 for a prompt assessment or book online.
What does the procedure actually involve?
Root canal treatment removes the inflamed or infected nerve tissue from inside the tooth. The tooth is numbed first, then a small access opening is made through the top. The internal canals are cleaned with fine instruments, irrigated with antimicrobial solutions and shaped so a permanent filling material can seal them off. Most front teeth are completed in one or two visits; back teeth (which have more canals) sometimes require two appointments. Each visit takes 60 to 90 minutes.
What you will feel afterwards
Modern root canal treatment is comparable to having a deep filling. You may notice mild tenderness when biting for a few days as the surrounding ligament settles — over-the-counter ibuprofen or paracetamol manages this comfortably. Severe pain after a properly completed root canal is uncommon. We always provide a contact route for the rare cases where it does occur.
Crowning a root-treated tooth
Back teeth that have had a root canal are often crowned afterwards. The reason is mechanical: the access cavity weakens the tooth, and the molars take the highest biting forces. A crown protects the remaining tooth from cracks. We will discuss with you whether a crown is recommended for your specific tooth at the planning stage.
More questions we get asked
Will the tooth ever need re-treatment? The success rate of a first-time root canal is around 90% over ten years. If symptoms return, re-treatment or referral to an endodontic specialist is sometimes the right next step.
Can I drive home after the appointment? Yes. Local anaesthetic doesn’t affect your ability to drive, though the numbness in your lip and cheek can feel unusual for a few hours.
Is sedation available? If you feel anxious about the appointment, please tell us — we can talk through your options at the consultation, including longer appointments and breaks during treatment.