Root canal treatment in Finchley — relieve pain and keep your natural tooth
When the inner tissue of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment can clear the infection, relieve symptoms and allow the tooth to remain in place. At 110 Total Dentistry on Ballards Lane, treatment is carried out under effective local anaesthetic with careful attention to your comfort throughout.
110 Total Dentistry · 110–112 Ballards Lane, Finchley, London N3 2DN · Near Finchley Central (Northern line)
What is root canal treatment?
Inside every tooth is a space called the root canal system, which contains soft tissue — nerves and blood vessels — collectively known as the pulp. When this tissue becomes irreversibly inflamed or infected (most commonly through deep decay, a cracked tooth or dental trauma), it can cause significant pain and, if left untreated, may lead to abscess formation or spread of infection.
Root canal treatment — also called endodontic treatment — involves removing the affected pulp tissue, carefully cleaning and shaping the inside of the canals, disinfecting them, and sealing the space with a biocompatible filling material. The tooth is then restored, most often with a crown, to protect it from fracture and restore normal function.
Symptoms that may indicate root canal treatment is needed include:
- Severe, spontaneous or throbbing toothache
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat that does not subside
- A gum abscess, boil or persistent swelling near a tooth
- Facial swelling linked to a specific tooth
- Discolouration of a tooth (grey or darkening)
- Deep decay reaching the nerve, identified clinically or on X-ray
- Dental trauma resulting in nerve involvement
Urgent warning: Facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, or rapidly spreading pain may indicate a serious spreading infection. Call 020 7998 7657 immediately, or attend your nearest A&E if you are unable to reach us. See our emergency dentist page for further guidance.
Treatment stages
Transparent fees
Fees are per canal. Most teeth have between one and four canals — the total cost depends on the tooth involved and the number of canals treated. Your dentist will provide a written estimate before treatment begins.
Fees verified August 2026. Please call to confirm current fees before attending.
Who may benefit
Root canal treatment is considered when the pulp tissue is irreversibly inflamed or infected but the tooth structure and surrounding bone are otherwise suitable for restoration. It may also be planned before placing a crown on a heavily broken-down tooth where the nerve is at risk. Your dentist will assess clinical and radiographic findings to determine whether treatment is appropriate for your situation.
Potential benefits
- Relieves pain and clears infection in most cases
- Preserves the natural tooth and root
- Maintains bone support in the jaw
- Avoids the cost and complexity of tooth replacement
- A well-restored root-treated tooth can function for many years
Limitations and alternatives
Root canal treatment is successful in resolving symptoms in the majority of cases, but no outcome can be guaranteed — the result depends on individual anatomy, severity of infection and how well the tooth heals. In some situations extraction may be clinically recommended instead.
Extraction is the main alternative. It is often quicker and less costly in the short term, but leaves a gap that may affect bite, adjacent teeth and bone density over time. Replacement options — implant, bridge or denture — each have their own costs and clinical requirements.
Recovery, aftercare and longevity
What to expect after treatment
Some tenderness or mild discomfort around the treated tooth is normal for a few days and is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, taken as directed. The tooth may feel sensitive to biting pressure while healing. Avoid chewing on the treated side until the definitive restoration is in place.
If you experience increasing pain, significant swelling or feel generally unwell after treatment, contact the practice promptly.
Crown placement and long-term care
A crown is usually recommended after root canal treatment to protect the tooth from fracture — particularly for back teeth that bear significant chewing forces. This is typically placed at a follow-up appointment once the tooth has settled. The crown is charged separately (from £490).
A root-treated tooth with a well-fitting crown can last for many years with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. Continued care — twice-daily brushing, interdental cleaning and routine dental examinations — supports the long-term health of the restored tooth and the rest of your mouth.
Dr Kozhaya Assaker — GDC 176427
DDS (2002) · Oral Biology (2003) · Diploma in Oral Surgery and Implantology (2007). Dr Assaker has undertaken further clinical training in Switzerland, the USA and France and is a member of the BDA, EAO and ITI. He speaks English, Arabic, French, Armenian and some Polish, and leads the clinical team at 110 Total Dentistry.
GDC registration can be verified at gdc-uk.org.
Root canal treatment FAQs
Is root canal treatment painful?
This is the most common concern, and a very understandable one. Root canal treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic, so the tooth and surrounding area are numb throughout. Most patients find that the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than having a filling. The reputation for pain largely relates to the infection that makes treatment necessary — not the treatment itself. Some tenderness in the days following is normal and settles with standard over-the-counter pain relief.
How many appointments will I need?
Most straightforward root canal treatments are completed over one or two appointments. More complex cases — for example, a heavily infected tooth with a complicated canal system — may require a further visit to allow the tooth to settle before the final seal is placed. Your dentist will give you a realistic estimate at your initial assessment.
What happens if I choose extraction instead?
Extraction removes the source of infection but leaves a gap. Over time, neighbouring teeth may drift, the opposing tooth can over-erupt, and the jawbone in the area may gradually reduce in density — a process called bone resorption. Replacement options (such as a dental implant, bridge or partial denture) are available but each carries its own cost, timeline and clinical considerations. Your dentist will explain both paths so you can make an informed choice.
Why do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
Once the pulp tissue is removed, a tooth no longer receives nutrients through the same route and can become more brittle over time. A crown placed over a root-treated tooth protects it from the forces of biting and chewing, significantly reducing the risk of fracture. In some cases a large filling may be appropriate instead — your dentist will advise the most suitable option for your tooth.
What is root canal retreatment and when is it needed?
Retreatment involves carefully removing a previous root canal filling, reworking the canal system and resealing the tooth. It is typically recommended where a tooth has not fully healed after an initial treatment, where infection has returned, or where the original filling has broken down. Retreatment is technically more involved than a first-time procedure and is charged at £700 per canal. Your dentist will take X-rays and assess whether retreatment is appropriate or whether an alternative approach is indicated.
Concerned about a tooth? Book an assessment in Finchley
Early assessment of an infected or painful tooth generally leads to a better outcome and more treatment options. Contact 110 Total Dentistry on Ballards Lane to arrange an appointment.
110–112 Ballards Lane, Finchley, London N3 2DN · Near Finchley Central station (Northern line) · info@110totaldentistry.co.uk