Root Canal Treatment: What Actually Happens (and Does It Really Hurt?)

10 September 2026 | 14:49

“Root canal” has a reputation as one of the scariest phrases in dentistry- but the treatment itself is far less dramatic than its reputation suggests, and it’s usually what saves a badly damaged tooth rather than losing it altogether. Here’s what’s actually involved.

What is root canal treatment, and why would you need it?

Inside every tooth is a soft core (the pulp) containing nerves and blood vessels. When decay, a crack, or repeated dental work lets bacteria reach that pulp, it can become infected or inflamed- causing anything from a dull ache to severe pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, or swelling. Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it- allowing you to keep the natural tooth rather than needing an extraction.

What happens during the appointment

• The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic before anything begins.
• A small opening is made in the tooth to access the infected pulp.
• The canals inside the root are carefully cleaned out and shaped.
• The tooth is filled and sealed, usually followed by a crown to protect and strengthen it, since a root-treated tooth can become more brittle over time.

Does a root canal treatment actually hurt?

This is the question almost everyone asks, and the honest answer is: not during the procedure. With modern local anaesthetic, having a root canal feels very similar to having a routine filling. The infection itself is usually what’s been causing the pain beforehand, not the treatment that resolves it. Mild soreness for a day or two afterwards is normal and manageable with standard painkillers.

What does root canal treatment cost?

At Euston Place Dental Practice, root canal therapy ranges from £550 to £1,143.75, depending on which tooth is affected and how many canals it has- front teeth generally have a single canal and are more straightforward, while back teeth (molars) can have three or four, making treatment more involved. A crown to protect the tooth afterwards is priced separately.

Root canal vs extraction: which is right for you?

Where possible, we’ll always recommend saving a natural tooth over removing it. A root-treated tooth that’s properly restored can last for many years and keeps your bite, and the teeth around it, functioning normally. Extraction is usually only considered when a tooth is too damaged to restore, or where root canal treatment has a low chance of success.

If you’re in pain or think you might need treatment, get in touch to book an appointment. The sooner it’s looked at, the more straightforward treatment tends to be.

Please contact us for advice by calling 01926 422509 or visiting our contact page