Root Canal
Root canal treatment aims to relieve tooth pain and treat infection inside a tooth, so that a badly decayed, cracked or infected tooth can often be kept rather than removed.

- 15 Allerton Road, Liverpool
- Open Mon–Sat 09:00–17:00
Root Canal
Inside every tooth is a soft centre, called the pulp, that contains nerves and blood vessels. If decay, a crack or an injury lets bacteria reach the pulp, it can become inflamed or infected. This can cause pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or swelling.
Root canal treatment removes the affected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth and seals it. The aim is to remove the infection and allow you to keep the tooth, instead of having it taken out. Your dentist will first examine the tooth and take an X-ray, so that they can explain whether this treatment is suitable for you.
Treatment is normally carried out under local anaesthetic. Not every tooth can be saved, and your dentist will talk you through your options, including what could happen if you decide not to treat the tooth.
Book Your ConsultationWhen might root canal treatment be considered?
Only a dentist can confirm whether root canal treatment is right for you, after an examination. These are some common reasons it is discussed.
Symptoms that may be linked to the nerve of a tooth
- Toothache that is severe, throbbing or keeps returning
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling or tenderness of the gum near a tooth
- A tooth that has darkened in colour
Possible causes
- Deep decay that has reached the nerve
- A cracked or broken tooth
- An injury to a tooth
- A tooth that has needed repeated or large dental work
- A previous root filling that has become infected
What the treatment aims to do
- Relieve pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth
- Help stop infection spreading to the surrounding area
- Allow you to keep your natural tooth where possible
- Avoid the gap that an extraction would leave
Things to be aware of
- A treated tooth often needs a crown or strong filling to protect it
- Some teeth need more than one visit
- Treatment does not always work, and the tooth may need further treatment or removal
- Your dentist will explain the risks before you decide
If you have swelling of your face or neck, difficulty swallowing, a high temperature or severe pain you cannot control, seek urgent dental or medical advice rather than waiting for an appointment.
Book a ConsultationWhat to expect
- 01
Examination and X-ray
Your dentist asks about your symptoms, examines the tooth and takes an X-ray to look at the root and the bone around it.
- 02
Your options and consent
They explain what they have found, the options available, the benefits and risks of each, and answer your questions before anything is done.
- 03
Treatment
Under local anaesthetic, the affected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped, and it is sealed. Some teeth need more than one visit.
- 04
Protecting the tooth
A filling or crown is usually advised to protect the tooth. Your dentist will explain aftercare and when to come back for a review.
Why choose us
Clear explanation first
Your dentist explains the diagnosis, your options and what to expect before you decide on treatment.
Comfort
Treatment is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, and you can tell your dentist if you need a break.
Dedicated appointment
Your online booking reserves a 30-minute appointment. This lets your dentist examine and assess the tooth.
Private appointments
Advance Smiles Medihub provides private healthcare services.
Convenient location
Visit our clinic at 15 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LG.
Meet Our Dentist

Dr Nadine Hamadelneil
Dentist
- Qualifications:
- BDS, MSc (Cape Towm), DDSc (Liverpool), FENDO RCSEd
Transparent Pricing
Root Canal
The final cost depends on the tooth that needs treatment and what your dentist finds at the examination. Your dentist will explain the cost, including any further work such as a crown, before you decide to go ahead.
Book Your AppointmentOur Clinic
Root Canal FAQs
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Treatment is normally carried out under local anaesthetic, so the area should be numb. You may feel pressure, and the tooth can be tender for a few days afterwards. Tell your dentist straight away if you feel pain during treatment.
Why might I need a root canal?
Usually because the pulp inside the tooth has become inflamed or infected, for example from deep decay, a crack or an injury. Your dentist will confirm the cause after an examination and X-ray.
What happens if I do not have treatment?
An infected tooth can become more painful, and the infection can spread to the bone and tissues around it. Your dentist will explain the alternatives, which may include removing the tooth.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on the tooth and how complex it is. Some teeth are treated in one visit and others need several. Your dentist will give you an idea after looking at your X-ray.
Will I need a crown afterwards?
Often, because a tooth that has had root canal treatment can be more brittle. Your dentist will advise whether a crown or a filling is the better way to protect your tooth.
Does root canal treatment always work?
No. It cannot be guaranteed. Sometimes infection returns and the tooth needs further treatment or removal. Your dentist will explain the risks for your tooth before you decide.
What should I do after treatment?
Your dentist will give you aftercare advice. In general, avoid biting hard on the treated tooth until it has been restored, keep cleaning your teeth as normal, and contact us if you develop increasing pain, swelling or a high temperature.
How much does it cost?
Our current listed price is from £750. The final cost depends on the tooth and any further work, such as a crown, and will be explained before treatment starts.
Where is the clinic and how do I book?
We are at 15 Allerton Road, Liverpool, L18 1LG. You can book online using the booking button, or call 0151 808 3018 to speak to our team.
Worried about a painful tooth?
Book an appointment and your dentist can examine the tooth and explain your options.
Medical Disclaimer
Information on this page is general and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a dentist or doctor. Whether a treatment is suitable for you, and its risks and likely outcome, depend on your individual circumstances and will be explained at your appointment. If you have swelling of the face or neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or severe pain you cannot control, seek urgent medical or dental care (call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency).