​What is endodontics?

Endodontics is the area of dentistry concerned with the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the roots of teeth.

You may know endodontic treatment simply as a root canal.

Inside your tooth is a small space containing the dental pulp, which includes nerves and blood vessels. If this tissue becomes inflamed or infected, treatment may be required to remove the damaged tissue, clean and disinfect the root canal system and seal the tooth.

Root canal treatment can allow a tooth that might otherwise require extraction to remain in your mouth and continue to function.

When might I need root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth has become irreversibly inflamed or infected.

This can happen as a result of:

• Deep tooth decay

• A large or failing filling

• Cracks or fractures in a tooth

• Trauma or injury

• Repeated dental procedures

• An infection developing around the root of a tooth

Symptoms can vary considerably.

You may experience:

• Persistent toothache

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Pain when biting or chewing

• Tenderness around the tooth

• Swelling

• A recurring gum abscess

• Discolouration of a tooth

• Or, sometimes, no symptoms at all

An absence of pain does not necessarily mean that a tooth is healthy. Sometimes infection is identified during a routine examination or on an X-ray.

If you have unexplained dental pain, we will first establish the cause rather than assuming that root canal treatment is required.

Why does root canal treatment sometimes become complex?

Every tooth is different.

Some teeth have relatively straightforward root canal anatomy. Others have extremely fine, curved, narrow, calcified or branching canals that can make treatment significantly more challenging.

Treatment can also become more complex when a tooth has:

• Previously undergone root canal treatment

• Calcified or very narrow canals

• Complex or unusual root anatomy

• A separated instrument within a canal

• Previous posts or restorative materials

• A perforation

• Persistent infection following previous treatment

• Suspected cracks or fractures

• Extensive previous dental work

These are the situations where enhanced magnification can become particularly valuable.

Root canal treatment using a dental operating microscope

Seeing more can make a difference

Dr Siobhan has invested in a dedicated dental operating microscope for her endodontic cases.

Unlike simply looking into the mouth under normal vision, an operating microscope provides powerful magnification combined with focused illumination.

The root canal system is extremely small and can contain anatomy that is difficult or impossible to see clearly with the naked eye.

The microscope allows Dr Siobhan to work with a much more detailed view of the treatment area.

This can be particularly helpful when:

• Locating additional or hidden canals

• Working with calcified canals

• Removing previous root filling material

• Managing obstructions

• Retrieving or working around separated instruments

• Inspecting suspected cracks or fractures

• Carrying out precise access and restorative procedures

• Preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible

The American Association of Endodontists recognises operating microscopes as an important part of modern endodontic treatment and identifies a number of these applications, including locating hidden canals, removing obstructions and helping with the repair of perforations.

Why has our Principal Dentist invested in a microscope?

Because complex cases deserve more time, visibility and precision.

For Dr Siobhan, the decision to invest in a dedicated operating microscope was not simply about adding another piece of technology to the practice.

It reflects her particular interest in endodontics and her desire to provide a higher level of care when root canal treatment is technically demanding.

Some root canal procedures can be completed relatively straightforwardly.

Others require considerably more patience and precision.

Having a microscope available means that Dr Siobhan can use enhanced magnification and illumination when the clinical situation calls for it, rather than relying solely on unaided vision.

It also allows detailed clinical photographs to be taken during treatment, helping with documentation and communication where appropriate.

The technology is important. But it is the clinician's knowledge, experience and judgement in using it that matters most.

Root canal treatment in Aberdeen

Our approach to endodontic treatment is based on careful diagnosis and individual treatment planning.

Before recommending treatment, we will assess the tooth and consider:

• Your symptoms and dental history

• The condition of the tooth

• The health of the surrounding tissues

• The tooth's root anatomy

• Previous treatment

• The restorability of the tooth

• Whether root canal treatment is appropriate

• Whether referral to a specialist endodontist would be more appropriate

Where appropriate, we may use dental X-rays and other diagnostic imaging to help understand the anatomy and condition of the tooth.

We will explain our findings and discuss your options with you before treatment begins.

What happens during root canal treatment?

1. Diagnosis

We begin by establishing what is causing your symptoms and whether the tooth is suitable for endodontic treatment.

2. Anaesthesia

The tooth is carefully numbed before treatment begins. Modern local anaesthesia allows root canal treatment to be carried out comfortably for most patients.

3. Isolation

The tooth is isolated from the rest of your mouth during treatment. A dental dam will be used to help keep the treatment area clean and protected.

4. Accessing the root canals

A small opening is made in the tooth to allow access to the internal root canal system.

5. Finding the canals

This is where magnification can be particularly useful in complex cases.

Using the operating microscope, Dr Siobhan can examine the tooth at high magnification and illumination to help identify the tiny entrances to the root canals.

6. Cleaning and shaping

The canals are carefully cleaned, disinfected and shaped using specialised endodontic instruments.

7. Sealing the canals

Once the canals have been appropriately cleaned and prepared, they are filled and sealed to help prevent bacteria from re-entering the system.

8. Restoring the tooth

Following root canal treatment, the tooth will normally require a suitable restoration to protect it and restore its function.

The appropriate restoration depends on the individual tooth and how much natural tooth structure remains.

Can you treat a tooth that has already had a root canal?

In some cases, yes.

If a previously root-filled tooth develops persistent infection, symptoms or other problems, endodontic retreatment may be considered.

Retreatment can be considerably more complex than initial root canal treatment because the tooth may contain existing filling materials, posts or other obstructions.

The microscope can be particularly valuable during these procedures, helping the clinician see small structures and existing materials more clearly.

However, retreatment is not appropriate for every tooth.

We will assess the tooth carefully and explain whether retreatment, another treatment option, referral or extraction should be considered.

Can a root canal save my tooth?

One of the principal aims of endodontic treatment is to retain a natural tooth that would otherwise potentially need to be removed.

Where a tooth is suitable for treatment and can subsequently be restored successfully, root canal treatment can allow it to continue functioning as part of your natural dentition.

However, no dental treatment can guarantee that a tooth will last indefinitely.

The long-term outlook depends on factors including the condition of the tooth, the complexity of its anatomy, the quality of the treatment and the quality of the final restoration, as well as your ongoing oral health and habits.

Our priority is to give you an honest assessment of whether the tooth is worth trying to save.

When might we recommend seeing an endodontic specialist?

We believe in knowing when a case is within our expertise and when a specialist referral is appropriate.

Some cases are particularly complex and may benefit from assessment or treatment by a dentist who has completed specialist postgraduate training in endodontics.

If we believe that referral would give you the best option, we will explain why and help you understand the next step.

Our investment in endodontic equipment and our Principal Dentist, Dr Siobhan's special interest in the field allow us to manage many more complex cases within the practice, but we will never compromise your care simply to keep treatment in-house.

Root canal treatment without the fear

The words "root canal" can make people nervous.

Modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve infection and preserve the tooth, rather than cause unnecessary discomfort.

We take time to explain the procedure before beginning and use effective local anaesthesia to keep you comfortable.

If you are nervous about dental treatment, please tell us.

We can discuss your concerns and agree on an approach that helps you feel more comfortable and in control.

Root canal treatment vs extraction

If a tooth has become infected or badly damaged, extraction is not always the only option.

Where a tooth can be predictably treated and restored, preserving the natural tooth may offer significant advantages.

Keeping your natural tooth can help maintain your existing bite and avoid the need for replacement options such as an implant, bridge or denture.

However, sometimes a tooth cannot be predictably saved.

In these situations, extraction may be the most appropriate treatment.

We will always discuss the alternatives with you rather than assuming that one treatment is right for everyone.

Frequently asked questions about root canal treatment

Is root canal treatment painful?

Modern root canal treatment is performed using local anaesthetic and should not be painful for most patients. The purpose of treatment is to remove inflamed or infected tissue and treat the cause of the problem.

Some tenderness can occur after treatment, particularly where there has been significant inflammation or infection.

How long does a root canal take?

The treatment time depends on the tooth and the complexity of the case.

A straightforward case may require less time than a complex molar, retreatment or a tooth with unusual anatomy.

We will explain the expected number of appointments and treatment time before starting.

Why would I need a root canal?

Root canal treatment is usually required when the pulp inside a tooth becomes irreversibly inflamed or infected.

This can result from decay, trauma, cracks or repeated dental treatment.

What is a complex root canal?

A complex root canal may involve difficult anatomy, very narrow or calcified canals, previous root canal treatment, obstructions, separated instruments or other factors that make conventional treatment more challenging.

Why use a microscope for root canal treatment?

A dental operating microscope provides enhanced magnification and illumination. This can help the clinician identify small or hidden canals, inspect the treatment area more closely and work more precisely in complex cases.

Can a microscope guarantee a successful root canal?

No.

A microscope is a valuable clinical tool, but it does not guarantee the outcome of treatment.

Success depends on many factors, including diagnosis, tooth anatomy, infection, the quality of treatment, restoration and the individual circumstances of the tooth.

Can you redo a failed root canal?

In some cases, yes.

Endodontic retreatment may be possible where a previous root canal has not healed as expected.

The tooth will need to be assessed to determine whether retreatment is appropriate.

Will I need a crown after root canal treatment?

Not necessarily.

The appropriate restoration depends on the tooth, how much tooth structure remains and the forces placed on it.

Your dentist will recommend the restoration most appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Can you remove a broken file from a root canal?

In some cases, a separated instrument can be removed or managed.

The feasibility depends on its position, the anatomy of the canal and other factors.

Magnification and specialised instruments can be useful when attempting these procedures.

Can you treat a calcified root canal?

Some calcified canals can be located and treated, although these cases can be technically demanding.

Enhanced magnification and illumination can be particularly helpful when attempting to identify very small or partially blocked canals.

Do you treat dental infections?

Where appropriate, endodontic treatment can address infection originating from the dental pulp and root canal system.

If you have facial swelling, significant swelling around the mouth or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek urgent medical attention.

Meet Dr Siobhan Principal Dentist & Dentist with a Special Interest in Endodontics

Dr Siobhan is the Principal Dentist at The Terrace Clinic Aberdeen and has developed a particular clinical interest in endodontics and complex root canal treatment.

Her interest in this area has led her to invest in a dedicated dental operating microscope, which she uses when enhanced magnification and illumination can assist with diagnosis and treatment. She has a Masters from the University of Chester demonstrating her commitment to enhancing her skills and attends conferences on root canals to continue her learning. 

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Her approach is centred on careful diagnosis, preserving natural tooth structure where possible and providing patients with clear information about their treatment options.

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Why choose The Terrace Clinic Aberdeen for root canal treatment?

A Principal Dentist with a special interest in endodontics

Your treatment is provided by Dr Siobhan, who has developed a particular interest in root canal treatment and complex endodontic cases.

Dedicated operating microscope

Our practice has invested in a dedicated dental operating microscope for cases where enhanced magnification and illumination can be beneficial.

A focus on preserving natural teeth

Where clinically appropriate, we aim to preserve your natural tooth rather than move immediately towards extraction.

Careful diagnosis

We take time to understand the cause of your symptoms and assess whether root canal treatment is the right option.

Honest advice

If a case would be better managed by a specialist endodontist, we will tell you and can discuss referral options.

Personalised treatment

Every tooth and every patient is different. Your treatment plan is based on your individual circumstances.

Looking for a dentist for complex root canal treatment in Aberdeen?

If you have been told that you need a root canal, have a tooth that has become painful following previous treatment, or have been advised that your case may be complex, we can assess your situation.

Book a consultation with Dr Siobhan at The Terrace Clinic Aberdeen to discuss your options. The goal isn't simply to perform a root canal.

It's to understand the tooth, treat it carefully and give it the best possible chance of remaining part of your natural smile.