Root Canal and Endodontic Treatment Leicester
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, it may be a sign of infection within the tooth. At our Leicester based dental clinic, we offer advanced root canal and endodontic treatments designed to eliminate infection, relieve discomfort, and preserve your natural teeth.
With a gentle, patient-focused approach and many years of experience, our team is here to restore your dental health and help you avoid unnecessary extractions—so you can keep smiling with confidence.
Dental infections are a common issue affecting the living tissues within a tooth.
Fortunately, infections can be successfully treated with root canal treatment which provides a lifeline for the health of your tooth.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is recommended when the pulp inside a tooth — which contains the nerve and blood vessels — becomes infected or dies. Without treatment, this can lead to ongoing pain or the development of a dental abscess. In most cases, a root canal allows us to save the affected tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
What happens during root canal treatment?
During root canal treatment, the infected or dead pulp is carefully removed from inside the tooth. The root canals — the tiny spaces the pulp once occupied — are then thoroughly cleaned using advanced nickel-titanium instruments and antibacterial solutions. Once cleaned and disinfected, these canals are filled with a specialist root filling material. The tooth is then sealed with a conventional filling to help prevent future bacterial contamination and protect the remaining tooth structure.
How root canal treatment improves your dental health
- Prevents a dental infection from spreading: stops the infection from affecting adjacent teeth and entering the bloodstream
- Alleviates Pain: relieves discomfort caused by inflammation or abscesses
- Preserves Natural Tooth: maintains your natural smile and chewing ability
- Protects your dental and general health
- Reverses unpleasant symptoms
- Cost-Effective: avoids the need for more expensive procedures like implants or bridges
Good dental care and regular check-ups with the hygienist and dentist are vital for avoiding root canal treatment in the future. Your dentist will guide you on how to optimise your at-home routine and how to protect your teeth against decay and dental trauma that can lead to repeated dental infections.
Your root canal treatment journey
- Examination: Your mouth is examined for signs of decay. We will ask you if you have been experiencing any of the symptoms listed above and how long these have persisted. We will do assessment using X-rays to determine the extent of infection.
- Recommendations: We will let you know what the most viable option is moving forwards. In some cases, the tooth can be too infected to treat with a root canal. This said we will always do everything in our power to prolong the health of an infected tooth and avoid extractions.
- Treatment: If root canal treatment can be performed, this will go ahead under local anaesthetic. The decayed pulp is removed from the tooth, and the root canals are thoroughly cleaned out and filled.
- Restoration: A crown is made to fit over the top of the tooth to protect it against fracture.
FAQs
What are the signs that a root canal is needed?
- Your tooth shade has become darker.
- A bad taste in your mouth around a particular tooth.
- A lump around the tooth (an abscess).
- Swelling in the jaw.
- Pain and sensitivity.
How much is root canal treatment?
At our Leicester based clinic, root canal treatment prices start from £345 for front teeth, £395 for premolars, and £450 for molars.
We understand that managing dental costs can be a concern, which is why we also offer flexible payment plans and 0% interest-free finance options to help spread the cost of your treatment comfortably.
Please get in touch with our reception team to learn more or to discuss a personalised finance plan.
How long does a root canal take?
A typical root canal procedure usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes. In most cases, it can be completed in a single visit.
However, if the tooth has multiple roots or a severe infection, additional time or a second appointment may be necessary. Your dentist will provide a more accurate time estimate based on the complexity of your case.
Is root canal treatment painful?
At Knighton Dental, we use modern dental techniques and effective numbing, and most of our patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the treatment.
The root canal actually helps to relieve the discomfort caused by an infected or damaged tooth. Afterward, you might experience some mild soreness, but this is temporary and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Can I eat after root canal procedure?
Yes, you can eat after a root canal, but taking some precautions is essential. Immediately after the procedure, while your mouth is still numb, it’s best to avoid eating to prevent accidentally biting your cheek, tongue, or lip. Once the numbness wears off, you should start with soft foods that are easy to chew and avoid anything too hot, cold, or hard. Gradually, you can return to your normal diet as you feel more comfortable.
Our dentist will provide specific advice based on your case.
Can i drive after a root canal?
Most patients feel well enough to resume normal activities, including driving, shortly after the procedure. However, if you were given sedation or feel particularly drowsy or uncomfortable, it might be best to arrange for someone else to drive you home.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Yes, in most cases a crown is recommended to protect the tooth from future fractures and to restore its function—especially for back teeth.
What happens if I delay or avoid root canal treatment?
Delaying treatment can cause the infection to spread, leading to severe pain, swelling, or even tooth loss. In some cases, it may affect other areas of the body if left untreated.
Is root canal treatment available on the NHS?
Yes, but availability and eligibility may vary depending on your local NHS dentist. We offer private treatment with greater flexibility, shorter waiting times, and advanced materials.
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