Port East Building Hertsmere Road Canary Wharf London E14 4AE
The pulp is the soft tissue at the tooth’s centre that contains the nerve and blood supply to the tooth. The most common procedure involving the pulp is root canal treatment.
A root canal treatment is a procedure that involves the removal of the soft tissue within a tooth that has become infected or inflamed. This soft tissue is referred to as “pulp.”
When the pulp becomes infected, it can be incredibly painful to eat or chew and there may be swelling after the pulp is removed. The root canal is cleaned, disinfected and filled with a non-reactive material. A filling is then put over it to seal the root canal filling and prevent further bacterial infection. If the tooth needs more support it may need a crown or an onlay.
A root canal can prevent a tooth from being extracted and can also relieve the pain and discomfort from an infection.
Why might I need to have a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is the treatment required for an inflamed or infected pulp, and where the remaining tooth structure can still be restored. An infected and inflamed pulp can lead to toothache and treatment. However, a tooth can show signs of an infection and still be pain-free or may have an infection for a long time without showing any signs or symptoms. Once an infection is diagnosed, having root canal treatment will essentially save a diseased tooth from extraction. Signs of infection severe enough to need root canal treatment are:
Our dentists are knowledgeable and highly experienced in pain management techniques and root canal treatments, and will ensure their patients are as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.
What causes pulp damage and discomfort?
The most common causes of pulp damage are:
When is it time to see your dentist for a root canal treatment?
If you are experiencing any pain, extreme sensitivity, or swelling of the face or gums then you need to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will examine your specific case and determine the best treatment option.
Why should the pulp be removed?
If a damaged or infected pulp is not removed the bacteria can infect and damage the bone around the root eventually causing a cyst or extensive bone loss. At this stage, the tooth may have to be extracted.
How is root canal treatment performed?
A root canal treatment is a delicate process. The success of the treatment is related to the complexity of the tooth itself and the competency of the dentist. At Platinum Dental Care we have specific dentists that have a special interest in endodontics and are highly skilled at performing root canal treatments.
The process of a root canal treatment is outlined below:
The tooth will initially be thoroughly investigated and tested and any risks or complications will be explained The tooth and the area around it will then be numbed to prevent pain or discomfort during the treatment. If the tooth cannot be numbed because of the size of the infection, it’s unlikely that your dentist will continue with the treatment, and the infection may have to be treated systemically first.
Next, a rubber dam will be placed to isolate the tooth which keeps it clean and allows better visibility for the dentist as well as comfort for the patient. Once the tooth is fully numb, the old filling or decay is removed, including the infected pulp. This will then give access to the root canals which are progressively disinfected, shaped and filled. The tooth is then restored with a core filling and then prepared for either a crown or an onlay on the same or following appointment. Various x-rays may be taken during the treatment to check the progress.
The permanent crown or onlay will be fitted 1-2 weeks later to seal the root canal treatment and restore its look and function.
How long will a tooth that has had root canal treatment last?
The success and survival of a root treated tooth depend on many factors such as the state and anatomy of the tooth, and size of the infection prior to the root canal treatment, any complications during treatment, any decyl or fracture of the tooth after the root canal treatment and any gum disease. Having regular dental exams and cleaning can help to keep your mouth healthy and improve your survival of root treated teeth.
What is the “pulp” of a tooth?
The pulp is the soft, living tissue which extends from the centre of the tooth (pulp chamber) into the roots. It contains nerves, tissue, and blood vessels and is housed by two hard outer layers of dentine and enamel.
Signs that you might need a root canal
Some infected teeth can be painless and show no outward signs of infection and can only be detected on a dental x-ray. Despite this, infections will not heal on their own, and it is vital that routine dental exams are scheduled to check for the possibility of infected teeth and prevent infections. If you are in pain with a toothache or have swelling please book an emergency appointment with us.
What happens during a root canal?
A root canal treatment is a procedure that generally consists of two appointments (although more appointments may be needed).
Some patients may require a crown (‘cap’) on top of the tooth that provides additional protection, support and a seal for the tooth structure following the root canal.
Patients should avoid biting down hard on the treated tooth until after the crown has been fitted to prevent the tooth from cracking.
Benefits of a root canal.
There are many benefits to undergoing a root canal treatment, including:
How will I feel after my root canal?
Some patients may experience some discomfort during the first few days after their root canal treatment. You may be prescribed antibiotics to guard against infection if you have swelling. A few days after the root canal is completed, the discomfort should dissipate and you can resume eating, chewing and talking normally.
How long will my restored tooth last?
A tooth with a root canal can last for many years if you keep up with your daily cleanings and regular dental exams and professional cleanings. The longevity does also depend on several other factors including the state of the underlying tooth structure, level of initial infection etc.
The dentists at Platinum Dental Care are available to answer any questions you may have about a root canal treatment. Contact them to learn more about how to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Very much recommend. First time going to Platinum for a dental cleaning and was very happy at the speed and professionalism of the service. Previously going to BUPA and felt that the experience was a notch better. Very easy online booking system. The Hygienist, Priya Dhain was excellent - attentive and provided helpful advice, and would definitely recommend.
I came to get my teeth cleaned and couldn't be happier with Camilla's work!
She made me feel calm and relaxed, and her reassuring words put me at ease. I couldn't recommend her enough!
I've been very impressed with Platinum Dental Care from the outset. They are a warm and professional team with extreme technical proficiency – Ronnie in particular. On the rare occasion when I've had dental issue, they have always worked very hard to squeeze me in at short notice and take of the problem in every sense: by clearly outlining the treatment plan, providing personal reassurance and comfort during the actual procedure, through to financing advice around payment plans. Without doubt the best dentist I have ever had. Would strongly recommend.
Platinum Dental Care is easily the friendliest, most professional and highest quality dentist in London. The whole team consistently does everything they can to make sure you get the best treatment possible. Their communication about appointments is always excellent and the practice is a warm and friendly place. Special mention for Catia who always goes above and beyond for every single customer to give them the best possible service. I highly recommend Platinum and the team, I recently moved further away from the practice but have absolutely no hesitation in remaining a patient there.
I found Platinum Dental Care after relocating while mid-way on an implant treatment. Dr Marios was very patient and diligent on making it all work to perfection. And Dr Patel was amazing at finding and fixing issues before they became a problem. The practice is full of the latest technology with 3D imaging and the best staff. The girls managing reception are very professional and very meticulous, helping you with the process.
For something important as oral health you want to go to the best place. And in London that's Platinum.
I was smiling when I walked in and left smiling when I walked out. Millie was professional, friendly and reassuring throughout the duration of my appointment. As a healthcare professional myself I really appreciated Millie's efforts to make sure I was okay throughout the procedure. Front desk staff were friendly and professional too. I would book here again without a doubt.
Sarika is the best dentist. I have been with her for 2 years and cannot be happier with my teeth now
Big Thank you for Ana at the reception to go out of her way to get an appointment. Thank you for Nadia to be fantastic. The place is 4.9 star on google for a reason.
Highly recommend this place. I've been to a few other private dental practices in London - Bloomsbury, London Bridge and Moorgate, but this place is my favourite and I'd recommend this practice for both check ups and hygienist visits. They are thorough with their explanations and won't rip you off. I had a quote from another practice, but Platinum (Harriet) confirmed work wasn't necessary. I had Nadia for my hygiene visit and she was great. She really took time to explain the issues and go through options to prepare me for the clean, which other practices have never done to that extent in all the years I've seen hygienists. I was offered numbing gel for the sensitive areas to be cleaned, which worked a treat.
Visited Yana the dental hygienist this morning. Brilliant service and lovely lady. Teeth squeaky clean and unlike some hygienists the procedure was not painful at all. Highly recommended.,
I would like to thank everyone from the reception team and also yana the hygienist and above all Dental surgeon Dr Ronak Patel who always gave the best treatment possible and is kind and friendly manner always made it a pleasure to attend the practice you will all be deeply missed if it wasn't for me moving out of London I would never have left such a great practice
Thank you all
Regards
I have been going here for a couple of years now and have found that their patient care is of the highest quality - including the front desk, my hygienist and my dentist, Dr. Kumar. I just had some restorative work done this year and the work was top notch. Price-wise they compare to other private clinics in the area. I was allowed to prepay for the major treatment in instalments which helped a huge amount.
Dr Ronak and Nadia Begum have been great since I've joined Platinum. They are very personable and do seem to really care. I feel in very safe and professional hands!
From making the appointment through to treatment the whole experience was beyond pleasant experience. The reception staff are very friendly and welcoming and Dr Sarika Shah is so polite and respectful. She had treated me with great dignity. I have never had such a thorough experience in a dentist. Dr Sarika Shah took her time to get to know me and talked me through the whole Invisalign treatment. I decided to have my bite treated at this practice because of the care that they provide but also their amazing flexible financial plans that makes it very affordable to anyone. Would definitely recommend this dental practice. First class service from Platinum Dental Care!
I have an unsightly chip on one of my front teeth from an accident in my teens. The original filling fell out 2 years ago, and I went to an NHS dentist that did a very rushed and poor quality job at patching it. Unsurprisingly, it didn't look or feel very nice, and also didn't last very long. I needed to have it restored again this year.
The dentist here (Dr Roni) was absolutely fantastic. He has done such a spectacular job. I can't see where the filling that he's used to restore my front tooth begins or ends, and it looks 100% natural. The colour and texture is matched so perfectly that one can only describe it as a work of art. In addition, both him and his assistant were very pleasant and comforting.
The reception team were also very helpful with getting me booked in, in spite of all of the Covid19 pressures and difficulties. I can't recommend this dentist enough - they are worth every penny.
Last year I made the decision to start Invisalign treatment with Platinum Dental and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. From the initial consultation to completion of the treatment Dr Sarika Shah was amazing at guiding me through the whole process. Every step was explained concisely and left me feeling totally comfortable the journey I was on. My treatment lasted just over 6 months and I am incredibly happy with the results. Overall a great dental practice.
The staff were very friendly and helpful.
Dr Patel was excellent with his diagnosis and treatment.
I thoroughly recommend this practice.
We uses cookies to improve user experience. You can read more about our Cookie Policy in our Privacy Policy.
Accept REJECTNecessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.