Dentist Hertfordshire

Root canal treatment: what to expect

By Dr Faiz Azizan Data last checked How we list clinics

Root canal treatment removes infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth so the tooth can be kept rather than extracted. It is usually carried out under local anaesthetic over one or more visits, and a crown may be advised afterwards. On the NHS it falls within Band 2 charges.

Why it is needed

Deep decay, a crack or injury can let bacteria reach the pulp inside the tooth, causing pain and infection. Treatment cleans out the canals and seals the tooth.

What happens

The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, the infected tissue is removed, the canals are cleaned and filled, and the tooth is restored. Some teeth need more than one visit.

Afterwards

The tooth may feel tender for a few days. Your dentist may advise a crown to protect it. Follow the aftercare advice you are given and contact the practice if pain or swelling worsens.

Questions to ask your dentist

  • Is this tooth worth saving, and what happens if I choose extraction instead?
  • How many visits will it take, and will I need a crown afterwards?
  • What should I expect in the first few days, and when should I call you?
  • Is this treatment available on the NHS for me, and in which band?

Hertfordshire dentists that mention this treatment

Compare practices whose own websites mention this treatment, by town:

Credentials and treatments on those pages are stated by each practice and are not verified; see the methodology.

Sources

This guide is general information compiled by an independent directory, not clinical advice. See the disclaimer and methodology.

Related

Frequently Asked Questions

Is root canal treatment painful?
It is done under local anaesthetic, so it should not be painful during treatment; some soreness afterwards is common.
What is the alternative?
Extraction of the tooth, which your dentist can discuss, along with replacement options.
Where can I compare Hertfordshire dentists for "root canal treatment"?
Town pages that compare practices mentioning this treatment on their own websites: Root Canal Treatment in Watford, Root Canal Treatment in St Albans, Root Canal Treatment in Hemel Hempstead, Root Canal Treatment in Stevenage and Root Canal Treatment in Bishop's Stortford. Listings are A-Z and based on what each practice states, checked 6 October 2026.
Is the guide "Root canal treatment" medical advice?
No. It is general information compiled by Dr Faiz Azizan from official sources such as NHS.uk and the General Dental Council. For advice about your own teeth speak to a registered dentist; for urgent problems call NHS 111.