Root Canal
- Alleviates pain and discomfort from infected or inflamed pulp
- Preserves the natural tooth, maintaining normal biting force and sensation
- Prevents the spread of infection to neighboring teeth or other areas of the mouth
- Avoids the need for tooth extraction and subsequent dental procedures like bridges or implants
Root Canal Therapy
Throbbing or sharp toothache, toothache disturbing your sleep, sensitivity to hot and cold, or swollen and tender gums, are all general indicators of a dental problem. We advise people to come to the practice to check this as soon as possible. In many cases, a root canal therapy is necessary to alleviate the pain and save the tooth.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is used to repair damage inside the tooth. It may help save the part of the tooth above the gums, minimise the risk of further damage, and prevent the loss of the tooth entirely.
The tooth may have become infected or damaged by decay, repeated dental work, wear and tear, gum disease, cracked fillings, or an injury to the tooth. Our goal is to conserve your natural teeth and save the tooth from extraction.
What to Expect
At Beecroft Smiles Dental Surgery, our protocol usually involves three sittings. Depending on the severity of the infection, we may prescribe an antibiotic for the infection prior to the actual procedure. At our modern practice, we have advanced technology and equipment to provide the highest quality care and results.
The first step in the procedure is to numb the area; providing pain relief is always our priority. Next, we drill a hole in the tooth to remove the soft centre, known as the dental pulp. It’s made up of connective tissue, nerves, and blood supply, and extends into the roots of the tooth. After the pulp is removed, the dentist fills the space and treats any remaining infection. Best of all, the pain is gone.
Over the next visits, once the infection is gone, the tooth is filled and sealed, and a crown is placed to strengthen and protect it.
CONTACT US TO GET STARTED
Delaying the procedure may increase the pain and infection may become more severe. Call us today to get started!
Popular Questions Answered....
The perception of pain during a root canal is a common concern, but with modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure itself is typically not painful. Most patients experience relief from the pre-existing pain caused by the infection in the tooth. Post-procedure, some tenderness and discomfort might be present but can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
A root canal involves several steps:
- Anesthesia: The area around the affected tooth is numbed using a local anesthetic.
- Access Opening: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- Pulp Removal: Infected or inflamed pulp tissue is removed from the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The canals are cleaned and shaped to prepare for the filling material.
- Filling the Canals: The cleaned and shaped canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to seal them.
- Restoration: The opening in the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling, and in most cases, a crown is placed to restore the tooth’s shape, look, and function.
The cost of a root canal in Australia can vary widely depending on factors like the complexity of the procedure, the tooth involved, and the dentist’s location. On average, the price can range from AUD $1,000 to $3,000 or more per tooth, not including the cost of a crown if needed. It’s best to consult with a dental professional for an accurate estimate based on your specific situation.
Root canal treatments are designed to be long-lasting. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime. The success and longevity of the treatment also depend on the final restoration’s quality and the tooth’s health and structural integrity post-procedure. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are crucial to ensure the durability of the treatment.
