When faced with the need for a root canal, choosing the “best” clinic can be daunting. But what does “best” really mean? The answer can vary based on several factors such as cost, expertise, or convenience. It can also differ depending on who you ask, and when. If you use Google then “best” will be influenced by the clinic’s marketing and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO).
In this guide, we’ll examine eight different ways to interpret the word “best” and explain why choosing based on value—not just cost—can make all the difference.
But remember – it’s not just the clinic that’s important but also the individual clinician. You might be in the biggest most highly acclaimed clinic but if the individual treating you doesn’t have the qualifications and experience of an Endodontist in a smaller, less well known, clinic then the results are not likely to be as impressive.
Of all the criteria there is one which varies from day to day and that is “availability” – when you’re in pain how quickly you can be seen by an Endodontist can be the determining factor, but don’t let it cloud your view entirely. If you’re the right type of patient for a particular clinic they may be able to find time for you out of hours.
1. Cheapest Root Canal Clinic London
It’s tempting to search for the cheapest root canal treatment. While price is important, focusing solely on cost can be a risky decision. Clinics offering low-cost treatments may not have the best diagnostic equipment or highly experienced endodontists, which could affect the treatment outcome.
2. Perfect Clinical Results
A clinic’s ability to deliver high success rates should be a top priority. Root canal treatments have a generally high success rate (up to 95%), but failures can occur, especially in complex cases. If a root canal fails, the infection can persist, leading to more invasive procedures like a retreatment or even tooth extraction. Replacing an extracted tooth with a dental implant can cost significantly more than a successful root canal, highlighting the importance of expertise and technology.
3. Most Sophisticated Equipment
Endodontists who use advanced diagnostic and treatment tools, like microscopes and digital radiographs, are better equipped to detect hard-to-see canals and ensure thorough cleaning of the tooth’s interior. Clinics that invest in cutting-edge technology might charge more upfront but offer better long-term results.
4. Most Highly Qualified Root Canal Clinic
Check the qualifications of the endodontist handling your case. Specialists like Dr. Julian Webber, who have advanced degrees in endodontics and decades of experience, often have the highest success rates. They are more adept at handling complex cases, which general dentists are not be equipped to manage.
Several different levels of qualification allow a dentist to describe themselves as an Endodontist (someone who specialises in root canal treatments). Most Endodontists have a Diploma but the more qualified have a Masters or higher qualification. When comparing a full-time, two-year Master’s Degree to a diploma, the advantages become clear in terms of both depth and breadth of knowledge. The Master’s Degree from the Eastman Dental Institute is a highly comprehensive program that provides in-depth theoretical understanding and extensive practical experience in root canal treatment, retreatment, and complex endodontic cases. It is globally recognized, offering the highest level of specialization in endodontics, not least as students receive intensive training in the latest techniques and technology, such as advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., CBCT imaging), clinical microsurgery, and biomaterials.
In contrast, a diploma in endodontics—while valuable—tends to be a shorter, less immersive program focused more on basic techniques rather than advanced procedures. A Master’s degree, particularly from a prestigious institution like the Eastman Dental Institute, often includes research components and advanced clinical practice under the mentorship of leading specialists. This additional experience prepares clinicians to handle more complicated cases, making them more adept at managing failures, such as cracked teeth or severely calcified canals.
Clinicians with a Master’s degree are often regarded as leaders in the field, not only because of their extensive practical training but also due to their exposure to cutting-edge research and complex case management. This can directly influence the success rates of treatments they perform, making them a more reliable choice for patients with challenging dental issues.
5. Largest Number of Root Canal Treatments Conducted
Experience matters. Clinics that handle a high volume of root canal treatments tend to develop streamlined processes, reducing the likelihood of complications. However, volume alone doesn’t guarantee quality. Always consider the balance between volume and individual attention.
6. Value for Money
Rather than focusing purely on the cheapest clinic, we suggest looking for value. A more expensive clinic with highly trained specialists and advanced equipment may save you more in the long run by avoiding retreatments or extractions. The cost of a failed root canal can easily surpass the initial savings from a low-cost clinic.
7. Comfort
Root canal treatment can make many people anxious, and can last for 3-4 hours, so it is important to choose a clinic and an individual Endodontist with whom you feel relaxed and confident. Clinics with a patient-centered approach ensure comfort with both the treatment and the environment.
8. Most Awards
Root canal clinics that have received awards and accolades often have a well-established reputation for excellence. While not the only metric of quality, awards can provide additional reassurance when making your decision.
Why Value is More Important than Cost
“Value” is arguably a function of all the above 8 factors. But bear in mind that choosing the cheapest can have hidden downsides.
When a root canal is unsuccessful, the cost implications can multiply dramatically. A failed root canal may necessitate re-treatment, often at a higher cost than the initial procedure, or lead to tooth extraction. Extraction introduces the need for further treatments, such as a dental implant, which can be a more expensive and invasive solution. By opting for a root canal clinic with experienced specialists and modern technology, you can minimize the risk of failure and long-term costs.