Root Canal Therapy: What It Is, How It Works, and What to Expect

What Is Root Canal Therapy and Why Is It Done? 

Root canal therapy — also known as endodontic treatment — is a dental procedure designed to treat infection at the center of a tooth while preserving its structure. The treatment gets its name from the “root canals,” which are the tiny channels that extend from the pulp chamber of the tooth to the roots. These canals house nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue — all of which play a key role in the early development of a tooth.

However, once a tooth is fully developed, the pulp is no longer essential for its survival. This is where root canal therapy becomes a solution. If the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, the infection can cause significant pain and even lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Instead of removing the tooth, root canal therapy allows a dentist or endodontist to:

• Remove the infected or dead pulp tissue
• Clean, disinfect, and shape the root canals
• Seal the space to prevent reinfection
• Restore the tooth with a filling or crown

Many people fear root canals due to outdated myths. However, modern root canal therapy is not only routine but also relatively painless, thanks to local anesthesia and advanced techniques.

This treatment plays a vital role in dental health by:

• Eliminating tooth pain caused by deep decay or trauma
• Preventing the spread of infection to other parts of the body
• Preserving the natural tooth and supporting normal chewing function
• Maintaining your natural smile and bite alignment

Root canal therapy is an effective and often necessary treatment that helps save millions of teeth every year. Rather than undergoing extraction and replacement, patients can retain their natural teeth and avoid more invasive procedures like implants or bridges.

What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure Step by Step? 

Root canal treatment is a multi-step procedure typically completed over one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. The goal is to remove infection, clean the canals, and seal the tooth to prevent future issues. Here’s how the process works from start to finish.

How Is a Root Canal Performed? 

• The dentist begins by administering a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding gum. This ensures that the procedure is comfortable and pain-free.
• A dental dam — a thin rubber sheet — is placed around the tooth to isolate it and keep it dry during the treatment.
• The dentist uses a dental drill to make a small opening through the crown (top) of the tooth, creating access to the pulp chamber and root canals.
• Using fine, flexible files, the dentist removes the infected or dead pulp, including nerves and blood vessels, from the canal system.
• Once cleaned, the canals are shaped to allow thorough disinfection and filling.

What Is the Root Canal Treatment Process Like? 

• After removal of the pulp, the dentist cleans the canals with antibacterial solutions to eliminate any remaining infection.
• Depending on the number of canals and degree of infection, the cleaning process may take one or more visits.
• If multiple appointments are needed, the dentist places a temporary filling and may insert medication inside the canals to kill bacteria between visits.
• At the next visit, the temporary filling is removed and replaced with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, which is sealed in place with an adhesive cement.
• The access hole in the crown is sealed with a permanent filling to close off the tooth completely.

What Is Root Canal Filling and What Materials Are Used? 

• The filling material used in a root canal is gutta-percha, a biocompatible substance designed to seal the canals tightly and prevent reinfection.
• Dentists may also use a sealer paste made of materials like zinc oxide eugenol or epoxy resin for extra protection.
• A temporary filling is sometimes used if further treatment (like placing a crown) is needed at a later appointment.
• Final restoration often includes a dental crown to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.

This step-by-step approach ensures that the infection is thoroughly removed, the canals are sealed effectively, and the tooth is reinforced to function like a healthy, natural one.

What Are the Signs You Need a Root Canal? 

Root canal therapy is typically recommended when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected, inflamed, or damaged. While a dental X-ray and exam are needed for a definitive diagnosis, there are several signs and symptoms that may indicate you need a root canal:

• Persistent tooth pain: One of the most common symptoms. The pain may be deep and throbbing, or sharp and stabbing. It can come and go or be constant, and may radiate to the jaw, face, or ear.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold: If your tooth aches or lingers in pain when exposed to hot coffee or cold drinks, this could suggest nerve damage or pulp inflammation.
• Pain when chewing or touching the tooth: If it hurts when you bite down or apply pressure, there may be infection or damage within the tooth.
• Swollen or tender gums: Swelling around the tooth may indicate infection has spread beyond the pulp and into the surrounding tissues.
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth: A tooth that turns grey or dark may indicate that the internal tissue is dead.
• Pimples or abscesses on the gums: These bumps (known as fistulas) may drain pus from an infected tooth, a sign of a chronic infection.
• A loose tooth: Infection in the root can weaken surrounding bone, leading to increased mobility of the tooth.

It’s important to note that not all tooth infections cause obvious pain. Some may only be detected during routine dental exams and X-rays. That’s why seeing a dentist regularly is critical — it allows early identification of issues that could be treated before they escalate into more complex problems.

Ignoring the signs can lead to:

• Spreading infection
• Bone loss
• Abscesses
• Total tooth loss

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, it’s best to schedule a dental evaluation promptly.

Is Root Canal Therapy Painful? 

One of the most common misconceptions about root canal therapy is that it’s extremely painful. In reality, modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain — not cause it. With the use of advanced techniques and local anesthesia, most patients report the experience is no more uncomfortable than getting a routine dental filling.

Do Root Canals Hurt During the Procedure? 

• Before starting the treatment, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, ensuring you feel no pain throughout the procedure.
• You may feel pressure or mild sensations, but not actual pain.
• Patients with dental anxiety may be offered sedation options to help them stay calm and relaxed.

Is There Pain After Root Canal Treatment?

• After the numbness wears off, mild soreness or tenderness in the tooth and surrounding gum is normal.
• This discomfort typically lasts a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol.
• It’s important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s permanently restored with a filling or crown.

What If the Pain Persists? 

• If pain continues beyond 5–7 days, or worsens over time, it could indicate:
  • Incomplete cleaning of the canals
  • An undetected additional canal
  • Reinfection
• Contact your dentist promptly if you experience:
  • Severe or throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Fever
  • Pus or unusual discharge

Root canal therapy has come a long way thanks to advanced anesthetics, better equipment, and skilled endodontists. Today, the procedure is highly predictable, safe, and relatively painless — especially when compared to the intense pain of an untreated dental infection.

What Happens After a Root Canal? 

After your root canal procedure is completed, your tooth will begin healing and adapting to the changes. While root canal therapy removes the infected tissue and pain source, post-treatment care is essential to ensure long-term success.

What Should I Expect After the Procedure? 

• Mild discomfort or tenderness is common for a few days following the procedure, especially when chewing or biting.
• Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Swelling is typically minimal but should be monitored — especially if it worsens.

When Can I Return to Normal Activities? 

• Most patients can return to work or school the next day.
• You should avoid eating or drinking until the numbness wears off.
• Refrain from chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored, especially if a temporary filling was placed.

What Happens to the Tooth Long-Term? 

• After root canal therapy, your tooth becomes non-vital (no longer has nerves or blood supply), but it can still function normally.
• The next step is placing a permanent filling or dental crown to reinforce and protect the tooth structure.
• In most cases, a dental crown is recommended — especially for molars or teeth with extensive damage — to:
  • Prevent future fractures
  • Restore normal bite function
  • Extend the life of the tooth

Do I Need a Follow-Up Appointment? 

• Yes, follow-up visits are essential to:
  • Ensure proper healing
  • Replace temporary restorations with permanent ones
  • Take additional X-rays if needed
• Your dentist will check the tooth’s bite alignment, monitor for signs of reinfection, and confirm that the final restoration is intact.

Root canal treatment has a high success rate, especially when proper aftercare is followed. With good oral hygiene and routine dental visits, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Do You Always Need a Crown After a Root Canal? 

Not every tooth that receives root canal treatment will require a crown, but in many cases, placing a crown is highly recommended — especially for teeth that endure heavy biting forces. Whether or not you need a crown depends on the location of the tooth, the amount of structure left, and its role in chewing.

Why Is a Crown Often Needed After a Root Canal? 

• After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle because the pulp (which provided moisture and nourishment) has been removed.
• Teeth with large cavities or existing fillings may have thin walls, making them prone to cracking or breaking.
• A dental crown reinforces the tooth, helping:
  • Prevent fractures
  • Restore full biting function
  • Protect the tooth from reinfection or decay

Which Teeth Require Crowns Most Often? 

• Molars and premolars (back teeth) almost always require crowns because they handle the bulk of chewing.
• Front teeth (incisors and canines) may not need crowns if:
  • There’s minimal damage or decay
  • The remaining tooth structure is strong enough
  • Aesthetic considerations are minor

What If I Don’t Get a Crown After a Root Canal? 

• A root canal-treated tooth without a crown is more vulnerable to fractures.
• If the tooth cracks, it may need retreatment or even extraction.
• Delaying a crown increases the risk of tooth failure — especially if the temporary filling deteriorates or bacteria re-enter.

What Are the Alternatives to a Crown? 

• Composite fillings may be used in certain low-stress teeth or when the damage is minimal.
• Onlays or inlays can be options for partial restoration, though these are less protective than full crowns.
• Discussing with your dentist is key — they’ll assess whether the structural integrity of the tooth can hold up without full coverage.

In most cases, placing a crown after a root canal is the best option for long-term success, especially if the tooth plays a vital role in biting, grinding, or aesthetics.

How Long Do Root Canals Last? 

When done properly and followed by good oral hygiene and professional restoration, root canals can last for decades — and in many cases, for life. However, several factors influence the longevity of a root canal-treated tooth.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Root Canal? 

• Success rates of root canals exceed 90%, especially when followed by crown placement.
• According to studies, about 85–90% of root canal-treated teeth survive 8 to 10 years.
• Teeth with crowns generally last longer than those without.

What Factors Affect Root Canal Longevity? 

Several factors influence how long your treated tooth will last:

• Tooth location: Front teeth (less stress from chewing) often last longer than molars.
• Crown placement: Teeth that receive a crown are better protected and last longer.
• Oral hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits reduce the risk of new decay or gum disease.
• Bite pressure: Teeth exposed to grinding or clenching are more prone to damage.
• Complexity of the treatment: Teeth with curved roots or hidden canals may need retreatment if not fully cleaned and filled.

What Can Cause a Root Canal to Fail? 

• Missed or untreated canals during the initial procedure.
• New infection due to decay, cracked crowns, or leaky fillings.
• Fracture of the treated tooth due to lack of a crown or excessive force.
• Poor oral hygiene leading to surrounding gum and bone problems.

Can a Root Canal Be Redone If It Fails? 

Yes — if a root canal fails, you may still save the tooth through:

• Endodontic retreatment: Reopening the tooth, cleaning out infection, and resealing it.
• Apicoectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the tip of the root and clean the surrounding area.
• Extraction and replacement: If the tooth cannot be saved, an implant or bridge may be needed.

A root canal is a long-lasting solution when properly performed and protected. With the right care and restoration, your treated tooth can remain functional and pain-free for many years — often for life.

 

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Root Canal? 

Delaying or avoiding a root canal when it’s needed can have serious consequences for your oral and general health. Infected pulp inside a tooth doesn’t heal on its own — and without treatment, the infection can worsen, spread, and ultimately lead to tooth loss or systemic complications.

Can a Tooth Infection Go Away Without a Root Canal? 

• No. Once the pulp inside your tooth is infected or dead, it cannot regenerate.
• Pain may temporarily subside, but this usually means the nerve has died — the infection remains and may silently progress.
• Without removing the source of infection, bacteria continue to spread deeper into the roots and surrounding bone.

What Are the Risks of Not Treating an Infected Tooth? 

If you don’t get a root canal when needed, the following may occur:

• Dental abscess: A pocket of pus may form at the root tip, causing swelling, pain, and potential jaw or facial infection.
• Bone loss: The infection can erode the bone that supports your tooth.
• Tooth loss: The tooth may become too damaged to save and need extraction.
• Spread of infection: Bacteria can spread to nearby teeth, sinuses, or even enter the bloodstream in severe cases (causing sepsis).
• Chronic pain and bad breath: Ongoing infection can cause persistent discomfort and foul odors.

What If I Don’t Feel Pain — Do I Still Need Treatment?

• Yes. Pain disappearing doesn’t mean the problem is gone — often, it’s a sign the nerve is dead, not that the infection is healed.
• Asymptomatic infections can still cause bone loss, abscesses, and future complications.

Can a Tooth Be Pulled Instead of Getting a Root Canal? 

• Extraction is an option, but it should be a last resort.
• Missing teeth can lead to:
  • Shifting of nearby teeth
  • Difficulty chewing or speaking
  • Jawbone shrinkage (bone resorption)
  • Need for more expensive replacements like implants or bridges

Root canal therapy is often the only way to save an infected tooth. Ignoring the problem may lead to pain, tooth loss, and costly complications. Timely intervention not only preserves your tooth but protects your overall health.

Is Root Canal Better Than Extraction? 

When facing a severely infected or damaged tooth, the two primary options are often root canal therapy or tooth extraction. Each has its advantages and drawbacks, but preserving the natural tooth is generally considered the best option when possible.

Why Is Root Canal Often Preferred Over Extraction? 

• Preserves your natural tooth, maintaining bite function and jawbone integrity.
• Avoids the need for artificial tooth replacements such as bridges or implants.
• Helps retain the natural appearance of your smile.
• Is typically less invasive and has a shorter recovery time than surgical extractions followed by implant procedures.

When Might Extraction Be the Better Choice? 

Tooth removal may be recommended if:

• The tooth is too decayed or broken to support a crown or filling.
• There is advanced gum disease that compromises tooth stability.
• You are not a good candidate for root canal due to anatomical or health reasons.
• The cost of retreatment outweighs the benefit if a previous root canal has failed.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Each Option? 

Root Canal Pros:

• Saves the natural tooth.
• Maintains normal chewing force and alignment.
• Often less expensive than replacing an extracted tooth.

Root Canal Cons:

• Tooth may still fracture or need retreatment in the future.
• Requires follow-up with crown or permanent filling.

Extraction Pros:

• Removes the infection completely.
• Useful if the tooth is beyond repair.

Extraction Cons:

• Leads to missing tooth gap, affecting chewing, appearance, and alignment.
• Requires replacement with implant, denture, or bridge, which adds cost and time.
• Risk of bone resorption at the extraction site.

Long-Term Outcomes: Root Canal vs. Extraction 

• Root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime with proper care.
• Implants or bridges can successfully replace missing teeth, but they may require multiple appointments, higher costs, and periodic maintenance.
• Preservation of natural teeth helps prevent jawbone shrinkage, which occurs after tooth loss.

In most cases, a root canal is the better choice when the tooth can be saved. However, extraction followed by a suitable replacement may be necessary when the damage is too severe. The final decision should be made with your dentist based on clinical assessment, cost, and personal preference.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in the UK? 

The cost of root canal treatment in the UK can vary significantly depending on whether you receive treatment through the NHS or privately, the tooth being treated, and the complexity of the case. Understanding the pricing structure can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Is a Root Canal on the NHS? 

• Root canal treatment on the NHS falls under Band 2 dental services.
• As of the latest update, Band 2 treatment in England costs £70.70, which includes:
  • Diagnosis
  • X-rays
  • Root canal treatment
  • Any required fillings

✅ Note: The cost may vary in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and some patients (e.g., under 18s, those on low income, or pregnant women) may qualify for free treatment.

What Does Private Root Canal Treatment Cost in the UK? 

• Private prices vary based on location, dentist experience, and tooth type:
  • Front tooth (incisor/canine): £150 – £400
  • Premolar: £250 – £500
  • Molar (more complex): £400 – £1,000+
• Specialist endodontists (root canal experts) may charge higher fees due to advanced tools and precision work.
• The cost of a crown (usually needed after root canal) is not included in most quotes and typically ranges from £300 – £900 privately.

What Factors Influence the Cost of a Root Canal? 

• Tooth type: Molars have multiple canals and are more difficult to treat.
• Severity of infection: More complex or infected cases require additional sessions or medication.
• Re-treatment or previous failed root canal: Costs more due to increased difficulty.
• Dentist experience: Endodontic specialists charge more than general dentists.
• Location: London and major cities usually have higher treatment prices.

Is Private Root Canal Treatment Worth the Cost? 

• Private clinics often offer faster access, more appointment flexibility, and modern technology (e.g., microscopes, CBCT scans).
• Long-term results may be better in complex cases when treated by a specialist.
• Ideal for:
  • Patients needing urgent treatment
  • Those who’ve experienced a failed NHS root canal
  • Individuals wanting premium aesthetic crowns

Root canal prices in the UK range from affordable on the NHS to more comprehensive private care. Regardless of where you get treated, early intervention is key to avoiding more complex — and expensive — treatments down the line.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in Albania? 

Albania has become a popular destination for dental tourism thanks to its affordable prices, qualified dentists, and modern clinics. Patients from the UK, Italy, and across Europe often choose to get treatments like root canals done in Albania to save on costs while still receiving high-quality care.

What Is the Average Cost of Root Canal Treatment in Albania? 

• Incisors or Canines (front teeth): €40 – €70
• Premolars: €50 – €90
• Molars (multi-canal): €80 – €150
• These prices typically include:
  • X-rays
  • Anaesthesia
  • Root canal cleaning and filling
  • Temporary filling
• Some clinics may include consultation and medication in the price.

Compared to the UK where molar root canals can cost £400–£1,000 privately, Albania offers savings of 60–80% on average.

Are Crowns Included in the Price? 

• No, the price for a dental crown is separate.
• Crown prices in Albania typically range:
  • Zirconia or porcelain-fused-metal crowns: €120 – €200
  • Full ceramic crowns (E-MAX): €200 – €300
• Packages may be available for root canal + crown at discounted prices.

What Influences the Price of Root Canal in Albania? 

• Tooth complexity (molars require more canals and time)
• Use of specialist technology (e.g., endodontic microscopes)
• Clinic reputation and location (Tirana clinics may charge more than smaller cities)
• Inclusion of diagnostics or medication
• Whether you need retreatment or first-time therapy

Is It Safe to Get a Root Canal in Albania? 

• Yes — many clinics in Albania use:
  • Modern equipment (rotary endo tools, apex locators, digital x-rays)
  • Sterile protocols and certified materials
  • Trained endodontists fluent in English or Italian
• Dental tourism clinics often cater specifically to foreign patients with tailored care and accommodation help.

Why Choose Albania for Root Canal Treatment? 

• Affordable pricing without compromising quality
• Short waiting times
• Clinics offering full treatment packages with transport and lodging support
• Combine dental work with a holiday on the Albanian Riviera or in Tirana

If you’re considering dental treatment abroad, Albania offers an ideal balance of price, professionalism, and patient care, especially for procedures like root canals that don’t require multiple months of follow-up.

Can Antibiotics Cure a Root Canal Infection Without Treatment? 

Many patients wonder whether antibiotics alone can resolve a root canal infection without undergoing the actual root canal procedure. While antibiotics can play a role in managing dental infections, they cannot replace the need for proper root canal treatment.

Why Can’t Antibiotics Alone Fix a Root Canal Problem? 

• Root canal infections are deep inside the tooth — in the pulp and root system — where blood supply is minimal or non-existent.
• Antibiotics rely on blood circulation to reach infected areas, but a dead or infected tooth pulp has no active blood flow.
• As a result, antibiotics can’t penetrate the root canal effectively, meaning bacteria can survive and re-infect the area.

⚠️ Without physically cleaning out the infected pulp, the infection will persist or return.

What Role Do Antibiotics Play in Root Canal Therapy? 

• Used as a temporary support, not a cure.
• Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if:
  • There’s swelling or an abscess beyond the tooth
  • You have systemic symptoms like fever
  • You’re undergoing multiple appointments, and there’s a delay before treatment is completed
• They help reduce acute infection and pain before root canal treatment begins.

What Happens If You Only Take Antibiotics and Avoid the Root Canal? 

• Temporary relief is common, but the pain usually returns once the antibiotics stop.
• The infection can worsen over time, leading to:
  • Abscess formation
  • Bone loss around the tooth
  • Spreading of infection to other parts of the body (in severe cases)
• Eventually, the tooth may need to be extracted if the infection becomes uncontrollable.

Are There Natural or Alternative Ways to Cure a Root Canal Infection? 

• Online sources may suggest natural remedies like oil pulling, garlic, or salt water rinses.
• While these may ease symptoms temporarily, none of them eliminate the infection inside the root.
• Only professional endodontic treatment can remove the infected tissue completely.

In conclusion, antibiotics are not a standalone solution for root canal infections. They may help manage symptoms in the short term, but the only way to fully resolve the infection and save the tooth is through root canal therapy or extraction.

Are There Alternatives to Root Canal Therapy? 

Root canal therapy is a common and effective treatment to save a severely decayed or infected tooth, but it’s not the only option available. Depending on the tooth’s condition, your health, and preferences, there are alternatives that may be considered — though each comes with its own risks and trade-offs.

What Are the Main Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment? 

1. Tooth Extraction
   • The most direct alternative to a root canal.
   • Removes the source of infection completely.
   • Often followed by tooth replacement options like:
     • Dental implants
     • Bridges
     • Removable partial dentures
   • May be ideal if:
     • The tooth is too damaged to restore.
     • You’re seeking a quicker solution.
     • Cost is a factor and you plan for a delayed implant.
2. Pulpotomy
   • Often used in children or young adults.
   • Involves partial removal of the pulp from the crown of the tooth.
   • Not suitable for teeth with deep infection or abscess.
   • Rarely used in adult permanent teeth as a standalone treatment.
3. Apicoectomy (Surgical Root Canal)
   • Used when traditional root canal treatment fails.
   • Involves surgically removing the tip of the root and sealing it.
   • Often recommended when re-treatment of the canal is not possible.

Is Extraction Better Than a Root Canal? 

• Root canals preserve your natural tooth, which is almost always preferred for:
  • Maintaining bite function
  • Supporting jawbone structure
  • Avoiding shifting of surrounding teeth
• Extractions, while faster, can:
  • Lead to bone loss
  • Require expensive restorative work
  • Impact chewing and speech

Long-term studies show that restored root-canaled teeth can last for decades, making them a solid investment when viable.

Why Not Just Do Nothing? 

• Leaving an infected tooth untreated can:
  • Cause the infection to spread to surrounding teeth, jaw, and bloodstream
  • Lead to severe pain, abscess formation, and bone loss
  • Create systemic complications if bacteria enter the bloodstream
• Doing nothing may seem easy but often leads to costlier and riskier consequences later.

When Might Alternatives Be More Suitable? 

• The tooth is fractured below the gumline and cannot be rebuilt.
• There’s severe periodontal disease compromising the tooth’s stability.
• The patient has medical conditions where endodontic treatment isn’t advisable.
• The patient prefers extraction and implant for personal or aesthetic reasons.

In summary, while there are alternatives to root canal treatment, each has its own set of pros and cons. Root canal therapy remains the preferred option when the tooth can be saved, but consulting a dentist or endodontist is essential to determine the most appropriate solution for your unique case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy 

Do You Always Need a Crown After a Root Canal? 

One of the most common follow-up questions after a root canal is whether a crown is necessary to complete the treatment. The answer depends on which tooth was treated, how much structure is left, and how much bite force it will endure.

Why Is a Crown Often Recommended After Root Canal Therapy? 

• After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle because:
  • The nerve and blood supply have been removed.
  • It has usually undergone significant decay or trauma.
• A crown:
  • Protects the tooth from fracturing
  • Restores full chewing function
  • Seals the tooth completely from bacteria
  • Provides long-term strength and durability

Which Teeth Need Crowns After a Root Canal? 

• Molars and Premolars (back teeth):
  • Almost always need a crown due to high bite pressure.
  • Without protection, they are prone to cracking or splitting.
• Front teeth (Incisors and Canines):
  • May not always need a crown if:
    • The tooth is intact after treatment.
    • A composite filling provides enough support.
  • If there’s visible damage or aesthetic concerns, a porcelain crown or veneer may be preferred.

General rule: The more stress a tooth handles, the more likely it needs a crown.

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Crown After a Root Canal? 

• The tooth may:
  • Crack or break, especially while eating
  • Re-infect if the temporary filling deteriorates or leaks
  • Ultimately need extraction
• A well-placed crown can extend the lifespan of the root-canaled tooth for 10–20+ years.

What Are the Best Crown Options After a Root Canal? 

• Zirconia Crown:
  • Strong and biocompatible, excellent for molars
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM):
  • Aesthetic and durable, commonly used
• E-MAX or Full Ceramic Crown:
  • Ideal for front teeth, highly aesthetic
• Metal-Only Crown:
  • Extremely durable, less aesthetic — used mostly for non-visible molars

Are Crowns Expensive? Can I Delay Getting One? 

Crowns are an additional cost:

 

• • In the UK: £300–£1,000 privately
  • In Albania: €120–€300 depending on materialDelaying increases the risk of tooth fracture or failure.If you need to wait, ask your dentist for a stronger temporary restoration or interim crown.

In conclusion, getting a crown after a root canal is not always mandatory, but in most cases, especially for back teeth, it is highly recommended to protect your investment and avoid future complications.

What Happens If You Need a Root Canal But Can’t Afford It?

Needing a root canal but being unable to afford it is a difficult situation that many patients face. Unfortunately, delaying treatment can lead to more serious health issues, but there are some practical paths and solutions you can explore.

What Are the Risks of Avoiding a Root Canal?

The infection will not go away on its own.
The bacteria inside the tooth will continue to multiply, leading to:

 

• • Persistent or worsening tooth pain
  • Swelling in the gums, cheek, or jaw
  • Formation of a dental abscess (pocket of pus)
  • Bone loss around the root
  • Tooth loss or even systemic infection in severe cases

In rare situations, untreated dental infections can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.

What Are Your Options If You Can’t Pay for Treatment?

1. NHS Treatment (UK Residents)The NHS Band 2 charge in England is £70.70, which covers root canal treatment and a permanent filling.Eligibility for free NHS dental care includes:
   • Low-income benefits
   • Pregnant women or new mothers
   • Patients under 18 or in full-time education
   • People with specific exemptions (e.g. pension credit, income support)
2. Low-Cost Dental Clinics
   • Look for community dental services, university dental schools, or charitable clinics that offer affordable or sliding-scale treatment fees.
   • In Albania and similar countries, private root canal treatments can be much cheaper, ranging from €50 to €150.
3. Payment Plans or FinancingMany private dental clinics offer:
   • Installment plans over 6–12 months
   • 0% interest options for qualified patients
   • Medical credit cards like CareCredit (US) or similar in the UK/EU
4. Tooth Extraction as a Temporary Solution
   • If treatment is completely unaffordable, removal of the tooth may be the only option.
   • While not ideal, it can relieve pain and infection quickly.
   • Be aware that missing teeth can affect chewing and bone structure, and replacement options like implants or dentures may be more costly later.

Can I Use Antibiotics Instead?

Antibiotics alone are NOT a substitute for root canal treatment.

They may temporarily reduce pain and swelling, but they do not remove the infected pulp.

Repeated antibiotic use can lead to:

 

• • Antibiotic resistance
  • Worsening infection
  • More complex future treatments

What Should You Do Right Now?

Don’t delay. Call your dentist and:

 

• • Explain your financial concerns honestly
  • Ask about all available options
  • Request a payment plan or referral to a public clinicTreat this as a medical priority, not just a cosmetic concern.

If you’re struggling to afford a root canal, you are not alone — but taking action is critical. Early intervention, even with limited resources, can save you money, your tooth, and protect your overall health in the long term.