Common causes include deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, cracks or chips, trauma, or untreated cavities that reach the pulp. Infection in the root canal can cause severe pain and abscesses if left untreated.

Symptoms include persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain while chewing, gum swelling, or discolouration of the affected tooth. If you’re experiencing any of these, our Didsbury team can assess the issue promptly.

Not anymore. With modern anaesthesia and techniques, root canal treatment at Pearl Smile is no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. Most patients feel immediate relief from their original pain after treatment.

Typically, a root canal takes 60–90 minutes and can often be completed in one or two appointments depending on the complexity of the case and the number of canals involved.

We’ll numb the area, access the tooth, remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the canals, and then fill and seal the space. In most cases, a crown is recommended afterward to restore strength and function.

Yes, in most cases. A crown protects the tooth from future damage and restores its strength, especially for back teeth which handle most of the chewing forces.

While root canal treatment is highly successful, failure can occur if bacteria re-enter the canal. At Pearl Smile, we use advanced imaging and sealing techniques to maximise long-term success, and we also offer retreatment if needed.

Recovery after a root canal is generally quick and manageable. Most people feel significant relief from the pain that led them to seek treatment, often within 24 to 48 hours. Some mild tenderness or sensitivity is normal, especially when biting down, and typically resolves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen or paracetamol is usually sufficient to manage any discomfort.

During the healing period, it's best to avoid hard or sticky foods that could irritate the treated tooth—especially if a permanent crown hasn’t yet been placed. While the tooth may feel slightly different at first, it should gradually return to normal function.

Proper oral hygiene is essential post-treatment. Brushing, flossing, and keeping the area clean will help prevent reinfection. If symptoms persist, worsen, or include swelling or fever, it’s important to contact your dentist promptly for a review.

Most patients can return to work or daily routines the same or next day, with minimal impact on their schedule.

The cost of a root canal depends on the tooth being treated and how complex the case is. At our practice, prices typically start from:

• Single Root Canal Treatment – from £595

• Molar Root Canal Treatment – from £750

Why the difference? It comes down to the anatomy of your teeth. Front teeth (like incisors and canines) usually have just one canal. They're simpler and quicker to treat. Molars, on the other hand, have multiple roots and curved canals, which makes them more time-consuming and technically demanding.

Think of it like this: treating a molar is the dental equivalent of fixing a high-end espresso machine versus a kettle. Both do important jobs—but one has more moving parts and takes more skill.

What affects the price?

A few things can influence your final fee:

• Tooth type: As above—molars = more complex = higher cost.

• Condition severity: An infected tooth with previous treatment or complications may need more work.

• Technology used: We use advanced rotary instruments and digital imaging, which improve precision—but also affect the fee.

• Dentist’s experience: More experienced clinicians or specialists (like endodontists) may charge more, but also tend to offer better outcomes.

• Crown needed afterwards: In many cases, especially with molars, you'll need a crown to protect the tooth long-term. That’s a separate cost.

Is it worth the price?

Absolutely—especially when compared to the alternative: losing the tooth.
Tooth loss can lead to:

• Bone shrinkage

• Misaligned bite

• Neighbouring teeth drifting

• And ultimately, more expensive treatments (like bridges or implants)

So while root canal treatment may feel like a bigger upfront investment, it often saves you money (and hassle) in the long run.