Fillings & root canals
When decay or a crack damages a tooth, we repair it so it looks natural and lasts — and when the nerve is affected, root canal treatment can save the tooth.
What it is
Fillings replace the damaged part of a tooth. We use tooth-coloured composite materials that bond to the tooth and blend in with your smile.
Root canal (endodontic) treatment is needed when the inner part of the tooth — the pulp — is inflamed or infected. We clean and seal the canals so you can keep your own tooth instead of losing it.
How it works
Diagnosis
Examination and X-ray show how deep the damage goes and which treatment is needed.
Numbing
A local anaesthetic makes the treatment comfortable.
Treatment
We remove decay, or clean and shape the root canals, and seal the tooth.
Restoration
The tooth is rebuilt with a filling; a heavily weakened tooth may need a crown.
Questions patients ask
Is a root canal painful?
With modern anaesthesia it feels similar to having a filling. It usually relieves the pain caused by the infection.
Do you use amalgam (silver) fillings?
We use tooth-coloured composite fillings that look natural and bond to the tooth.
Why not just remove the tooth?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually best for your bite and the bone around it. We will discuss all options with you.
Ready to talk it through?
Book a consultation — we will examine, explain your options and costs, and agree a plan with you before anything starts.