Root canal treatment

The tooth is numbed and isolated with a rubber sheet, which keeps the inside of the tooth clean and stops anything being swallowed. The damaged nerve tissue is removed, the canals inside the roots are cleaned, shaped and disinfected, and then sealed. Some teeth have one canal, molars often have three or four, and canals are frequently curved or narrow. Treatment is usually completed over two visits, sometimes more.

• It doesn't always work. Success rates are high but not certain. Some teeth remain sore or the infection persists, and the tooth then needs retreatment, minor surgery at the root tip, or removal.
• A flare-up of pain or swelling in the first few days, sometimes needing antibiotics or an unscheduled visit.
• Canals that can't be fully cleaned — blocked, calcified or extremely curved canals, or an extra canal that can't be found, all reduce the chance of success.
• An instrument fragment separating inside a canal. The files used are very fine and work under stress. A fragment is sometimes left in place if removing it would weaken or perforate the root; it doesn't necessarily affect the outcome.
• Perforation — a small hole made through the side of the root or the floor of the tooth while locating canals, which may need repair or affect the prognosis.
• The tooth fracturing, either during treatment or later. A crack running down the root usually means the tooth cannot be saved.
• Darkening of the tooth over time, particularly front teeth.
• Irritation from the cleaning solutions if they pass beyond the root tip — uncommon, but it causes immediate pain and swelling and needs managing.
• The restoration failing if the final filling or crown isn't completed, letting bacteria back in and undoing the treatment.

• Removing the tooth, then replacing it with an implant, a bridge or a denture — or accepting the gap.
• Referral to an endodontist, a specialist in root canal treatment, which we'd suggest for retreatments and difficult anatomy.
• Doing nothing. The nerve doesn't recover on its own. An untreated tooth typically leads to an abscess, and dental infections occasionally spread in ways that become serious.

• I understand root canal treatment cannot be guaranteed, and that the tooth may still need to be removed later.
• I understand the tooth will need a permanent restoration, usually a crown, as a separate appointment and a separate cost.
• I understand treatment usually takes more than one visit.
• I have read the information above and had the chance to ask questions.
• I understand no dental treatment can be guaranteed.
• The costs have been explained to me, and I can ask for a written quote before treatment starts.
• My medical history is accurate and I will tell the practice about any changes before my appointment.
• I understand I can change my mind at any time before treatment starts.
• I understand my dentist will go through this with me and confirm my consent in person on the day.

This form records that you have read and understood the information above. It is not consent to proceed — your dentist confirms consent with you in person before treatment begins, and you can withdraw at any time.