Few dental words cause more worry than “root canal”. Most of the fear comes from stories that are decades out of date. Here is what the treatment involves, what it costs in Kampala, and why it is usually the best way to keep your own tooth.

What is a root canal?

Inside every tooth is a soft core called the pulp, which contains the nerve and blood vessels. If decay or a crack lets bacteria reach the pulp, it becomes infected. A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth and seals it. The tooth stays in your mouth, but the infection and the pain are gone.

Signs you may need one

  • Severe, throbbing toothache, especially at night
  • Pain with hot drinks that lingers after you swallow
  • Swelling in the gum near a tooth, or a pimple-like bump on the gum
  • A tooth that has darkened
  • Pain when you bite down

These can also have other causes, so only an examination and an X-ray can tell. Do not wait: an infection left alone spreads, and the tooth is eventually lost. See our page on toothache treatment if the pain is severe.

Is a root canal painful?

No. The treatment is done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during it. A root canal relieves pain; it does not cause it. Mild tenderness for a day or two afterwards is normal and usually settles quickly.

What happens during treatment

  • Diagnosis and X-ray. We confirm which tooth is causing the problem and how far the infection has spread.
  • Anaesthetic. The area is numbed so you stay comfortable.
  • Cleaning. The infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned with modern rotary instruments.
  • Sealing. The tooth is sealed and restored.

It usually takes one to two visits of about 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the tooth and the extent of infection.

How much does it cost?

At M Dental Care, root canal treatment costs UGX 400,000. A crown is often recommended afterwards to protect the treated tooth for the long term. Crowns start from UGX 900,000 and are quoted separately in your treatment plan. See our crowns page and our full dental price list.

Root canal or extraction?

Keeping your own tooth is almost always better and cheaper in the long run than pulling it. If a tooth is extracted, you will usually need an implant or bridge later, which costs more. Sometimes a tooth cannot be saved, and your dentist will tell you honestly if that is the case.

Caring for the tooth afterwards

  • Avoid chewing hard food on that tooth until it has been fully restored.
  • Brush and floss as normal.
  • Take simple pain relief if it is sore, and tell your dentist if the pain gets worse or swelling appears.
  • Come back for the crown if one is recommended.

Book an appointment

In pain right now? Call or WhatsApp us on (+256) 0200 959927. We are open 7 days a week at Mbogo Road, Najjera–Kira. Read more about root canal treatment or book online.