Image used for illustrative purposes; it does not depict treatment provided at Experteeth Dental Group.
At Experteeth Dental, we understand that the thought of a root canal can feel daunting. That’s why our dentists are here to provide care that aims to save your tooth and relieve your discomfort. Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure designed to repair and preserve a tooth that has become infected or severely damaged, helping you keep your natural tooth.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, treats inflamed, infected or damaged pulp—the soft tissue inside a tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. Pulp problems can develop following deep decay, cracks, injury or repeated dental treatment. Treatment involves removing the affected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, then filling and sealing them to help reduce the risk of reinfection and retain the tooth.
Why Might You Need a Root Canal?
The following signs can indicate a dental problem that needs assessment. They do not, by themselves, confirm that root canal treatment is required:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain, particularly when biting or chewing.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that continues after the stimulus is removed.
- Swelling or tenderness around a tooth.
- A tooth becoming darker or discoloured.
- A recurring pimple-like swelling on the gums, which may be associated with infection.
Some teeth requiring treatment cause little or no pain. Your dentist will assess your symptoms, examine the tooth and use appropriate tests and X-rays to discuss suitable treatment options.
Arrange a prompt dental assessment if you notice these signs. Seek urgent dental or medical care for facial swelling or fever associated with a dental problem. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 000 or attend an emergency department immediately.
What Does Root Canal Treatment Involve?
Root canal treatment is a common procedure carried out by our dentists at Experteeth Dental. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and Diagnosis
We’ll start with a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage and confirm whether a root canal is needed. - Local Anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area and help manage discomfort during treatment. Please let your dentist know if you feel any pain or discomfort so they can assess whether additional measures are needed. - Accessing the Pulp
The dentist will create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp. - Cleaning and Shaping
Using specialised tools, we’ll carefully remove the affected pulp and clean the root canals (the tiny pathways inside the tooth’s roots). The canals are then shaped and disinfected to reduce bacteria. - Filling and Sealing
Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect it. - Restoration
In most cases, a tooth that has had a root canal will need a crown or additional restoration to strengthen it and help restore its function. We’ll discuss the options available to you.
The number and length of appointments depend on the tooth, the complexity of the root canals and your treatment needs. Additional visits may be needed to complete the final restoration and review healing. Your dentist will explain the expected treatment plan and costs.
Root canal treatment aims to retain the tooth, but healing and long-term outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Risks include discomfort, persistent or recurrent infection, tooth fracture, discolouration, instrument separation within a canal or damage to the root. Further treatment, specialist referral or extraction may be needed.
Before treatment, your dentist will discuss the expected benefits, risks, costs and suitable alternatives, which may include extraction, as well as the consequences of delaying or declining treatment. You can seek a second opinion before deciding whether to proceed.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Pain Relief: Can help relieve pain associated with inflamed or infected pulp.
- Tooth Preservation: Aims to retain a tooth that might otherwise need extraction.
- Infection Management: Treats infection within the root canal system and can support healing of the surrounding tissues.
- Function and Appearance: An appropriate final restoration can help restore chewing function and the tooth’s appearance. Results depend on the condition of the tooth and the restoration used.
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