Root fillings (Endodontics)
Root fillings, also known as endodontics, are fillings that are placed within the root cavity in a tooth.
We can carry out root fillings at the Courtyard Dental Practice but sometimes we may refer you for specialist therapy. Talk to our team today to find out how we can help you.
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a specialised part of dentistry that focuses on root canals with the aim to try and save teeth that have died due to trauma or decay.
If the nerve in a tooth dies then an abscess can form. To try to save the tooth the nerve can be removed and the void left behind can be filled. This is what is known as a root filling or root canal therapy.
The Benefits of Endodontics
If a tooth has died and has abscessed, then this is the only way to try to conserve the tooth
Saves natural teeth to avoid extraction
Restores oral function and alleviates pain
Preserves jaw health
Can be sore afterwards but normal painkillers are usually sufficient
Available to those who want to save a tooth where the nerve has died due to trauma or decay
Helps maintain your natural smile
How Endodontics Works
1
We start with an examination and diagnose any problems with your teeth.
2
Then we will numb the area before opening the tooth and canals.
3
Next we find the root canals and there can be up to 5 root canals in just one back tooth.
4
Once we have found the root canals we’ll wash and dress the tooth.
5
At another appointment we’ll reopen and fill the root canals.
6
Now it’s time to dress the opening and plan a dental crown as a tooth is brittle following root canal therapy.
The Type of Root Canal Fillings Available
Root fillings can be placed in all teeth with a patent nerve canal. However not all teeth are suitable. A badly broken tooth or a loose tooth may not be appropriate for a root filling. The root filled tooth can then be capped with a dental crown if required.
We’ll let you know if your tooth or teeth are suitable for endodontic treatment during a consultation.
Our Facial Aesthetics Practitioner
All facial aesthetics treatments are carried out by Dr Ailsa David, a medically accredited practitioner, ensuring safe, professional and high quality care tailored to you. Ailsa trained with Professor Brian Franks on his Medical Aesthetic Non-Surgical Interventions Training course in 2023. She holds certification for Botulinum Toxin Part 1 (for the upper face) and Dermal Fillers Parts I and II (for lower face and lip augmentation)
"I love carrying out facial aesthetics because small, carefully placed treatments can make a big difference to how someone feels about themselves. I really enjoy helping people feel more confident, refreshed, and like the best version of themselves.”
Frequently Asked Questions
An endodontist removes the nerves from teeth and fills the void with a filling material. This is known as root canal treatment.
What exactly does an endodontist do?
Root canal treatment or root fillings are the fillings placed within the root canal of a tooth. The filling closes up the cavity where a dead nerve was and where the blood supply has died.
What is root canal treatment?
Common symptoms which may mean you need root canal treatment include; pain and swelling around a tooth. This may indicate the need for a root filling but we’ll be able to let you know what dental treatment would be best for you during a consultation. Contact our team today to book your consultation.
What are common symptoms that require endodontic treatment?
Yes, cracked teeth sometimes need a root filling. However not all teeth are suitable for root fillings, our team will let you know what treatment is best for your teeth.
Do endodontists treat cracked teeth?
During endodontic treatment we will apply local anaesthetic to the area. However, teeth can be tender after a root filling, but over the counter painkillers like paracetamol can help ease the pain. However, the treatment is designed to alleviate pain rather than cause it, and so you should hopefully find your tooth pain disappears after treatment has been completed.
Is endodontic treatment painful?
Endodontic costs depend on the complexity of the root fillings required. A clear pricing structure will be explained to you at your consultation appointment.
What’s the average cost of endodontic treatment?
Care for the whole family
"I contacted Courtyard Dental Practice after years of deliberating teeth straightening with various other dentists. I inquired about Invisalign, and everything was explained so clearly."
Sonia Jandu
"The dentist Ailsa and Emily the nurse were really supportive and the appointment went really well."
Claire Treanor
"I went there today with my 5 years old for a check up and filling. They been great! Dr Freedman and Emily have been so friendly, professional and quick! "
Raquel Garcia Haro
"Alexia & her team are fantastic! I’m definitely a nervous patient but they were so great, a visit doesn’t make me nervous at all."
Suzi Ovens
"I just want you to know how much I appreciate you as a dentist - my wife has been terrified of the dentist for years.... now look at her! "
"Very happy with how professional Ailsa & Vicki was. Treatment was explained to me and I was made very comfortable."
"'I never thought a trip to the dentist could be something I would look forward to . Thank you all so much!"
"Thank you so much for the treatment this morning, my teeth feel much more comfortable. My visit to your practice was so reassuring I feel much more positive, "
"Lovely welcoming helpful staff and festive practice (its december) Dentist very knowledgeable and explained my treatment plan to me in a way that I can understand.!"
"I contacted Courtyard Dental Practice after years of deliberating teeth straightening with various other dentists. I inquired about Invisalign, and everything was explained so clearly."
Sonia Jandu
"The dentist Ailsa and Emily the nurse were really supportive and the appointment went really well."
Claire Treanor
"I went there today with my 5 years old for a check up and filling. They been great! Dr Freedman and Emily have been so friendly, professional and quick! "
Raquel Garcia Haro
"Alexia & her team are fantastic! I’m definitely a nervous patient but they were so great, a visit doesn’t make me nervous at all."
Suzi Ovens
"I just want you to know how much I appreciate you as a dentist - my wife has been terrified of the dentist for years.... now look at her! "
'Very happy with how professional Ailsa & Vicki was. Treatment was explained to me and I was made very comfortable.'
"I never thought a trip to the dentist could be something I would look forward to . Thank you all so much!"
'I love coming to the dentist because the staff are so friendly, smiley & kind"
"Dentist very knowledgeable and explained my treatment plan to me in a way that I can understand."
"Thank you so much for the treatment this morning, my teeth feel much more comfortable."
