When performed to an exacting clinical standard, root canal treatment offers a very high success rate and is often the most effective way to preserve your natural tooth. In many cases, the primary alternative is extraction, which would leave a gap that may later require replacement.
There are, however, certain situations where root canal treatment may not be clinically advisable — for example, if insufficient healthy tooth structure remains to support a restoration, if bone support is severely compromised, or if the root canal anatomy is exceptionally complex or inaccessible. In such cases, we may recommend referral to a specialist endodontist or discuss whether extraction represents the most appropriate course of care.

If initial root canal treatment does not achieve the desired outcome, re-treatment may be possible. This will depend on whether the underlying cause of the failure can be predictably addressed. Your dentist will discuss the most suitable options with you should this situation arise.

Root canal therapy is typically completed over one to three appointments, depending on the complexity of the tooth’s root canal system.
Once the root treatment itself is finished, further visits are usually required to place the definitive restoration — most commonly a crown — to protect and reinforce the tooth for long-term function.

Your comfort is paramount. We always ensure profound local anaesthesia is achieved before treatment begins, allowing the procedure to be carried out as gently and comfortably as possible.