A root canal procedure is one of the most misunderstood treatments in dentistry. Many patients hear the term “root canal” and immediately assume it’s a form of surgery or something that will require long recovery time. In reality, a root canal is a routine, non-surgical dental procedure designed to save a tooth from infection or damage — not remove it.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly what happens during a root canal, why it’s not considered major surgery, how it compares to other dental procedures and what you can expect in terms of comfort, recovery and results.
We’ll also share insight from the experienced root canal specialist dentists at Whites Dental, with two convenient locations in Waterloo and Marble Arch (W2), helping London patients protect their smiles comfortably and effectively.
Key Takeaways
- A root canal is not considered major surgery — it’s a routine, minimally invasive procedure performed under local anaesthetic.
- The treatment removes infection from inside a tooth and saves it from extraction.
- The procedure is typically painless – most patients will not experience pain during or after the procedure
- Recovery is quick — you can often return to work the same day.
- Success rates exceed 90–95%, making it one of the most reliable treatments in dentistry
What Exactly Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue (called the pulp) from inside a tooth. The pulp chamber and root canals are then cleaned, disinfected and sealed to prevent further infection.
This treatment is needed when decay or injury allows bacteria to reach the tooth’s nerve, causing pain, swelling, or abscesses. Instead of extracting the tooth, a root canal preserves it, restoring full function and appearance.
Common Reasons For A Root Canal
- Deep decay or a large cavity
- Cracked or chipped teeth.
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- Trauma or injury.
- Advanced gum disease spreading to the pulp.
Why A Root Canal Is Not Considered Major Surgery
When people hear the word “canal” or see dental instruments, they imagine a complex surgical process. But in truth, a root canal is non-surgical. It’s performed under local anaesthetic, and you remain fully awake and comfortable throughout. Let’s look at the key reasons why it’s classified as a routine dental procedure rather than surgery.
1. It’s Minimally Invasive
Major surgery usually involves incisions, stitches or operating under general anaesthesia. A root canal involves none of these. The dentist works through a small opening in the tooth, using precision tools to clean and seal the canals.
2. Local Anaesthetic Only
You’ll receive a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. You’ll feel pressure but not pain — most patients say it feels similar to having a filling.
3. No Hospital Stay
Root canals are done in-practice, not in a hospital or surgical centre. At Whites Dental, both our Waterloo and Marble Arch clinics are fully equipped for modern endodontic procedures, so you can go home right after treatment.
4. Short Recovery Time
There’s usually minimal downtime. Some mild tenderness may occur for a day or two, but you can eat, work and talk normally within hours.
How Root Canal Treatment Compares To Other Dental Procedures
To put things in perspective, here’s how a root canal compares to other common dental treatments.
| Procedure | Invasiveness | Anaesthetic | Recovery | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Root Canal | Minimally invasive | Local | 1–2 days mild sensitivity | Save infected tooth |
| Tooth Extraction | Moderate | Local | 3–5 days | Remove tooth completely |
| Implant Surgery | Surgical | Local or sedation | 1–2 weeks | Replace missing tooth |
| Filling | Minimal | Local | None | Treat cavity |
| Wisdom Tooth Removal | Surgical | Local or general | Up to 1 week | Remove impacted tooth |
💡 Clearly, a root canal sits closer to the filling end of the spectrum — not the surgical end.
Step-By-Step: What Happens During A Root Canal
Knowing what to expect can ease nerves and help patients see that it’s a standard dental procedure, not surgery.
Step 1: Examination And Diagnosis
Your dentist will take digital X-rays to determine the extent of infection and confirm that a root canal is needed.
Step 2: Local Anaesthetic
The area around the affected tooth is completely numbed to ensure you’re comfortable.
Step 3: Access Opening
A small hole is made in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber.
Step 4: Cleaning The Canals
The dentist removes infected pulp and bacteria using fine instruments. The canals are cleaned and shaped to prepare for filling.
Step 5: Filling And Sealing
A biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) is inserted into the canals and sealed to prevent reinfection.
Step 6: Restoration
A filling or crown is placed to restore the tooth’s strength and appearance. This final step ensures durability and full function.
💡 Most root canals take 90 – 120 minutes and are completed in one or two visits.
Pain Myths Vs Reality
Many people associate root canals with pain, but modern techniques and anaesthetics make the procedure virtually painless.
The Truth:
- The pain comes from the infection, not the treatment
- The procedure actually relieves pain by removing the source of infection.
- Post-treatment discomfort is mild and temporary.
💡 At Whites Dental, our London dentists use precision technology and gentle techniques to ensure maximum comfort. Patients often comment that the experience was easier than they expected.
Recovery And Aftercare
After your appointment, you can resume normal activities the same day. Here’s what to expect:
Normal Side Effects:
- Mild tenderness for 24–48 hours
- Slight sensitivity when chewing
- Temporary numbness from anaesthetic.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid hard foods until numbness wears off
- Brush and floss gently around the treated tooth
- Take mild pain relief if needed
- Attend your follow-up appointment for crown placement
💡 Most patients feel fully normal within two days.
Why Saving The Tooth Matters
Some patients wonder if it’s easier to extract the tooth instead of having a root canal. But keeping your natural tooth offers major benefits:
- Maintains natural chewing function.
- Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting
- Protects jawbone structure
- Avoids the need for expensive implants or bridges
💡 Root canal treatment in London is almost always the better long-term choice — less invasive, less costly and better for oral health.
Root Canal Success Rates
Root canals are among the most successful dental procedures available. Studies show success rates of 90–95%, especially when followed by proper restoration and care.
With modern materials, magnification and digital imaging, most root canal-treated teeth last 10–20 years or even a lifetime.
When A Root Canal Might Feel “Surgical”
While root canals are non-surgical, certain complex cases can require endodontic surgery (apicoectomy). This happens when infection remains at the root tip or re-infection occurs after previous treatment.
Even then, these minor surgical procedures are done under local anaesthetic and involve minimal discomfort. They’re rare and most root canal cases don’t require any surgical intervention.
Root Canal Treatment At Whites Dental In London
At Whites Dental, we perform root canal treatments using the latest digital imaging, rotary endodontic tools and magnification to ensure precision and comfort.
Our London Clinics:
- Whites Dental Waterloo
172 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8ER
📞 020 8616 0590 - Whites Dental Marble Arch (W2)
52B Kendal Street, St George’s Fields, London W2 2BP
📞 020 3576 2325
💡 Both our root canal clinics are centrally located in London, easily accessible via public transport and designed for a calm, relaxing dental experience. Our highly skilled team of dentists and endodontists have extensive experience providing painless, high-success root canal treatments.
FAQs About Root Canals
Q: How long does a root canal take?
Usually 60–90 minutes per visit; some complex cases may need two visits.
Q: Is a root canal painful?
No — local anaesthetic ensures comfort, and it actually relieves the pain caused by infection.
Q: How long does recovery take?
Most patients are able to return to their usual routine within a day or so.
Q: Will I need a crown afterwards?
Yes, in most cases. A crown protects and strengthens the treated tooth.
Q: What if I delay getting a root canal?
The infection can spread, leading to severe pain, abscess or even tooth loss. Early treatment saves time and discomfort.
When To Contact Whites Dental
If you experience persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold or swelling around a tooth, it may be a sign of infection requiring a root canal. The earlier it’s treated, the easier and more successful the procedure.
💡 At Whites Dental Waterloo and Whites Dental Marble Arch, our dentists provide same-day emergency assessments and gentle, expert care to preserve your smile.
Conclusion: Root Canal Treatment Is A Simple, Routine Procedure — Not Surgery
A root canal is not major surgery. It’s a common, highly successful treatment that saves your natural tooth and eliminates pain with minimal discomfort or downtime. Thanks to modern dentistry, it’s quicker, safer and more effective than ever.
If you’re in London and need expert advice or treatment, contact Whites Dental today. Our caring team at Waterloo (SE1) and Marble Arch (W2) will guide you through every step — ensuring a smooth, comfortable and long-lasting result.