Severe toothache does not automatically mean a tooth needs to be removed.
When the nerve inside a tooth becomes severely inflamed or infected, root canal treatment may allow the natural tooth to be retained.
At Pristine Dental Group, we provide emergency dental appointments in London 7 days a week, with same-day appointments available where possible.
Open 9:00 am – 5:30 pm, 7 days a week
Same-day appointments where available
Inside each tooth is the dental pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels. If this tissue becomes severely inflamed or infected, root canal treatment involves:
The aim is to remove the source of pain or infection while preserving the natural tooth where possible.
We aim to save the natural tooth where appropriate.
Root canal treatment may be the better option where the tooth can be predictably restored, enough healthy tooth structure remains, the surrounding bone and tissues are suitable, and the tooth has a reasonable long-term prognosis.
Extraction may be more appropriate where the tooth is severely fractured, too little healthy tooth structure remains, the root is cracked, or previous treatment has failed and re-treatment is not predictable.
The decision should be based on the long-term prognosis of the tooth, not simply the quickest way to stop the pain.
If extraction becomes necessary, we can also discuss replacement options.
For suitable patients considering dental implants, this may include:
An infected tooth may sometimes cause swelling or a dental abscess. Where the tooth can be saved, root canal treatment may help remove the source of infection from inside the tooth.
If you have significant swelling, severe pain or feel generally unwell, arrange urgent dental assessment.
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Potentially, yes. Treatment may be started or completed during the emergency appointment where clinically appropriate and time allows.
Not necessarily. Your dentist will diagnose the cause before recommending treatment.
Yes. The aim is to remove inflamed or infected tissue while retaining the natural tooth where possible.
Not always. The final restoration depends on the tooth and how much healthy tooth structure remains.
If the tooth cannot be predictably saved, extraction may be recommended and replacement options can then be discussed.
Back to Emergency Treatment
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At Pristine Dental Group, we provide high-quality dental care in a calm, modern setting, helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
