Root Canal Treatment at Taylors Lakes, Keilor, & Sydenham
Saving a Tooth Rather Than Losing It
Severe toothache, swelling, or a deep crack often points to infection inside the tooth. The traditional alternative is extraction.
Root canal treatment is the option that keeps the natural tooth in place. It removes the infection from inside the tooth while preserving the outer structure, which is then restored with a crown.
How Root Canal Treatment Works
A tooth has soft tissue inside it called pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected, often through deep decay, a crack, or trauma, the infection can cause pain, swelling, and eventually damage the bone around the tooth.
Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the canals where the pulp sat, and seals them with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection.
The tooth is then restored, usually with a crown, to protect the remaining structure from fracturing. A root-treated tooth becomes more brittle over time, which is why the crown step matters.
Outcomes depend on the extent of infection, the tooth being treated, and the restoration that follows. Some teeth respond very well to root canal treatment, others may need retreatment or eventual extraction.
Could You Need Root Canal Treatment?
At Taylors Lakes Dental House, we believe every patient deserves individual attention. Root canal treatment may be recommended following our comprehensive assessment if the pulp inside a tooth is infected or has been irreversibly damaged.
Your Treatment, Step by Step
Whilst the specifics vary based on the tooth and the extent of infection, here is what you can typically expect.
Your Comprehensive Assessment
We examine the tooth, take X-rays, and test the pulp to confirm whether root canal treatment is needed. Where another option is more appropriate, we explain why. (1 visit, approximately 45 to 60 minutes)
Treatment Planning
We walk you through the procedure, the timeline, the cost, and the planned restoration once the root canal is complete. Sedation and IV options are discussed at this stage if you have anxiety about the procedure.
Access and Cleaning
Under local anaesthesia, a small opening is made through the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The pulp is removed, and the canals inside the tooth are cleaned and shaped. (1 to 2 visits, approximately 60 to 90 minutes each)
Disinfection
The canals are disinfected to clear bacterial infection. In some cases, an antibacterial medication is placed inside the tooth between appointments to support disinfection. (Where applicable, 1 to 2 weeks between visits)
Sealing
Once the inside of the tooth is clean, the canals are sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection. A temporary filling is placed over the access opening.
Final Restoration
A crown is usually placed over the tooth in the weeks following the root canal, protecting the remaining structure from fracture. The crown step is essential for long-term outcomes. (Separate appointments for the crown process)
Review
A follow-up appointment confirms the tooth has settled and the bone around it is healing as expected. (Follow-up visit at 6 to 12 months)
Your Comprehensive Assessment
We examine the tooth, take X-rays, and test the pulp to confirm whether root canal treatment is needed. Where another option is more appropriate, we explain why. (1 visit, approximately 45 to 60 minutes)
Treatment Planning
We walk you through the procedure, the timeline, the cost, and the planned restoration once the root canal is complete. Sedation and IV options are discussed at this stage if you have anxiety about the procedure.
Access and Cleaning
Under local anaesthesia, a small opening is made through the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The pulp is removed, and the canals inside the tooth are cleaned and shaped. (1 to 2 visits, approximately 60 to 90 minutes each)
Disinfection
The canals are disinfected to clear bacterial infection. In some cases, an antibacterial medication is placed inside the tooth between appointments to support disinfection. (Where applicable, 1 to 2 weeks between visits)
Sealing
Once the inside of the tooth is clean, the canals are sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection. A temporary filling is placed over the access opening.
Final Restoration
A crown is usually placed over the tooth in the weeks following the root canal, protecting the remaining structure from fracture. The crown step is essential for long-term outcomes. (Separate appointments for the crown process)
Review
A follow-up appointment confirms the tooth has settled and the bone around it is healing as expected. (Follow-up visit at 6 to 12 months)
Risks & Recovery
Root canal treatment is generally well tolerated, but there are risks and recovery considerations worth understanding.
Possible risks include:
- Tenderness or discomfort in the days following treatment, particularly when biting
- Mild swelling around the tooth or jaw
- The infection failing to fully resolve, requiring retreatment
- Cracking or fracture of the tooth before the crown is placed
- A blocked or curved canal that cannot be fully cleaned
- Damage to the underlying structures of the tooth, in rare cases
- Eventual need for extraction if the treatment does not hold up over time
- Discolouration of the treated tooth, particularly if the crown is delayed
Recovery considerations:
- Discomfort generally settles within a few days, helped by prescribed or over-the-counter medication
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown is placed
- Sensitivity to pressure may continue for a week or two
- Good home care protects the tooth and the surrounding gums
- Regular check-ups monitor the long-term outcome of the treatment
Invest in Your Oral Health
Quality dental care is an investment in your long-term health and wellbeing. Download our comprehensive price guide today.
Any questions?
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure itself is performed under local anaesthesia, so most patients feel pressure but not pain during the appointment. Modern root canal treatment is generally comparable to having a deep filling in terms of comfort during the procedure. Tenderness in the days afterwards is normal and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Sedation and IV options are available for patients with significant anxiety.
Why do I need a crown afterwards?
A root-treated tooth becomes more brittle over time because the pulp inside, which kept the tooth nourished, has been removed. Without a crown to protect the remaining structure, the tooth is at higher risk of cracking or fracturing. The crown is part of the treatment, not an optional extra.
Is it better to just have the tooth extracted?
Extraction is faster and often cheaper upfront, but it leaves a gap that usually needs replacing with a bridge or implant. Saving the natural tooth through root canal treatment, where suitable, preserves the bone and avoids further work down the track. We walk you through both options honestly during your consultation.
Making Your Smile Affordable
We offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. Get the dental care you need, when you need it.
Our Promise To You
Same day emergency dental guarantee*
A caring, gentle approach at every appointment
5 Years warranty on major dentistry*
Advanced technology for your comfort
Ready to Save the Tooth?
The first step is a proper assessment, where we can examine the tooth, take diagnostic imaging, and confirm whether root canal treatment is the right approach. Get in touch with our Taylors Lakes team to book a time.
Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.
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