Caption: Before and after root canal treatment, image courtesy of Vallance Dental Centre.
Understanding the cost of a root canal in the UK is important when choosing between NHS and private dental care. The approach and expertise in these services can significantly affect both the cost and the quality of the treatment.
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, or endodontic treatment, is designed to save a tooth that has become infected at its core. This procedure is crucial for preserving natural teeth and preventing the need for extractions. This treatment is highly effective and is recommended to maintain your natural dentition whenever possible.
Costs: NHS vs Private
NHS Costs for Root Canal Treatment
Under the NHS, root canal treatment falls within Band 2. The cost for any Band 2 procedure, including root canal treatments, is £73.50 in 2024. This band covers all necessary treatments to manage disease, such as extractions, fillings, and root canal work. This fixed cost makes it an affordable option for eligible patients, ensuring they receive essential dental care without significant financial burden. For more detailed information, you can visit the NHS dental charges page.
Private Costs for Root Canal Treatment
Private treatment, such as that provided at Vallance Dental Centre, often involves a higher cost. This reflects the use of advanced technologies, such as microscopes, and the expertise of a dentist with a special interest in root canal treatment. Dr. Jonathan Skidmore has a Masters in endodontic treatment and does his utmost to achieve a high success rate and optimal outcomes using the latest techniques. See our Dental Charges page for the latest information.
The Procedure Explained
A root canal procedure typically follows these steps:
- Diagnosis and X-ray: The dentist takes an X-ray to examine the root canals and surrounding bone, looking for signs of infection.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
- Pulpectomy: A small opening is made in the tooth to access and remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the root canals.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The canals are then cleaned and shaped to prepare for the filling material.
- Filling and Sealing: The cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
- Restoration: Finally, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling to ensure functionality and appearance, providing strength and protection to the tooth.
Related Reading: Is Root Canal Treatment Right for Me
Why Your General Dentist May Not Perform Your Root Canal on the NHS
General dentists are highly skilled in a broad range of dental treatments; however, root canal treatments often require a higher level of expertise. Some root canal procedures are outside the scope of practice or ability for general dentists who do not have specialised training in endodontics. As such, these treatments might not be offered under the NHS in your regular dental practice.
Seeing a specialist, such as an endodontist, has significant benefits. Specialists are trained to use advanced equipment like microscopes, which enhance the precision of the treatment. This specialized approach leads to higher success rates and better long-term outcomes for complex cases, ensuring the best possible care for your dental health.
Meet Our Expert – Dr. Jonathan Skidmore
At Vallance Dental Centre, we’re fortunate to have the expertise of Dr. Jonathan Skidmore, a highly skilled dentist with a special interest and a Masters qualification in endodontic treatment. Dr. Skidmore’s extensive knowledge and experience in this field enable him to provide root canal treatments that are as comfortable and pain-free as possible. He leverages the latest techniques and technologies, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care during their endodontic treatments. If you want to find out more about private root canal treatment at the Vallance Dental Centre, please reach out.
Dr Jonathan Skidmore carrying out a root canal treatment under microscope magnification
Contact us
At Vallance Dental Centre, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and ensuring you fully understand your dental health. If you have any questions about root canal treatment, or need information on our dental charges, our friendly team is ready to assist.
Don’t let misconceptions or uncertainty deter you from achieving optimal dental health. Contact us by email or telephone to schedule an appointment. Understanding your treatment options is the first step to a healthier
