Preserving Your Natural Tooth
In the past, teeth with damaged pulps were removed. Today, a root canal treatment allows us to safely save the tooth while maintaining your natural smile. At Killara Dental, we provide root canal treatments at our East Killara clinic to help manage infection and preserve the function of your tooth.
Root canal treatments are used to save a tooth with an infected or dead pulp and help prevent the infection from spreading. Pulp exists inside each tooth, providing it with nerves and nutrients. When the pulp becomes damaged or diseased, it may no longer support the health of the tooth. A root canal treatment works by removing the affected pulp, cleaning the canal and reshaping it.
Once the pulp is removed, the root canal is cleaned and sealed for protection. A crown is then placed over the tooth to increase its strength and restore normal function.
Root canal treatments allow us to preserve your natural tooth and avoid extraction where possible. Call (02) 9418 2502 or book online to arrange your consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is treatment painful?
Root canal treatment eliminates the pain caused by tooth infection. A local anaesthetic is used to numb the tooth and surrounding area, making the procedure comfortable. Some mild sensitivity may be experienced after treatment, but this is usually temporary and settles within a few days.
How long does root canal treatment take?
A single root canal treatment can usually take anywhere between 30–90 minutes. Depending on the condition of the tooth, treatment may be completed in one visit or require additional appointments.
What are the benefits of root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a simple and comfortable procedure that offers several benefits, including relief of pain and discomfort, prevention of the spread of infection and restoration of a healthy tooth. With proper care, the treated tooth can last for many years. It also allows you to maintain normal biting and chewing function while preserving your natural smile without affecting surrounding teeth.
Are there any risks?
Over 95% of root canal treatments are successful. In some cases, further treatment may be required if additional canals are identified or if the initial treatment does not fully resolve the infection. These situations are uncommon, and your dentist will assess your individual case and discuss any considerations before treatment.
How long does recovery take after treatment?
The recovery period after root canal treatment is minimal, and most patients feel back to normal within a few days. Mild inflammation or discomfort may occur for a short time and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a warm saltwater rinse.
Are there any alternative options to root canal treatment?
The only alternative to root canal treatment is extraction of the affected tooth. This can affect surrounding teeth, potentially causing movement and changes to your bite. While extraction may seem less costly initially, replacement options such as implants or bridges are often required and can be more expensive in the long term. Where possible, preserving your natural tooth is generally the preferred option.
What Are the Symptoms of Pulp Tissue Damage?
Individuals may experience symptoms differently, but some of the most common signs of an injured or damaged pulp include:
- Pain when biting down or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
- Facial swelling
These symptoms can also be associated with other oral health conditions, so they may not always indicate the need for root canal treatment. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or discomfort, it is recommended that you consult a dentist for an assessment.
Why Do I Need Treatment?
Your tooth cannot heal by itself. If left untreated, the infection can lead to:
- An abscess forming at the root of the tooth
- Deterioration of the underlying bone tissue
- Severe pain
Delaying treatment for too long can make it more difficult to save the tooth.
The infection may also spread to neighbouring teeth or surrounding areas, which can lead to:
- Illness
- Blood poisoning
- Fever
- Swelling in the face and neck
What to Expect During Treatment
A root canal is usually a simple procedure with little or no discomfort and is typically completed over one to three visits.
Here is a step-by-step guide to how the procedure saves your tooth:
- We make an opening through the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber
- The injured or dead pulp is removed, and the canals are irrigated and medicated
- A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth between visits
- The temporary filling is removed, and the canals are cleaned and sealed
- A crown is placed over the tooth to restore strength and function
With modern technology and local anaesthetic, root canal treatments are generally no more uncomfortable than having a filling.
Comprehensive Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you need a family or cosmetic dentist in and around East Killara, get in touch with Killara Dental. With a comprehensive range of services and a highly experienced team to provide them, why go anywhere else?
