Root canal treatment removes infected tissue from inside a tooth, saving it from extraction. It has a reputation for being painful, but with modern techniques and anaesthesia, most patients report it feels similar to having a filling.
Root canal treatment in London costs £300-£700 privately for a single tooth. Molars cost more than front teeth because they have more root canals. You’ll usually need a crown afterwards, which is an additional cost. For a full breakdown of treatment costs, see our London dental cost guide.
On the NHS, root canal falls under Band 2 at £73.50 – significantly cheaper, though waiting times can be longer. For more on NHS dental access, see our NHS dentist London hub.
Treatment usually takes one or two appointments. Your dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, then fills and seals the tooth. A crown is normally recommended afterwards to protect the weakened tooth.
If you’re in pain right now, see our emergency dentist London page for urgent appointments. You may also want to explore dental implants if extraction is being considered as an alternative.
This information is a general guide and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Always consult a qualified dentist about your individual circumstances.