Root canal treatment, calmly done
Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed nerve tissue from inside a tooth and seals it, for Richmond patients wanting to save a tooth rather than lose it.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains the nerve and blood supply, and it can become infected through deep decay, a crack or trauma.
During treatment the canals are cleaned, shaped, disinfected and then sealed. Saving the natural tooth is often preferable to an extraction, and back teeth usually need a crown afterwards to protect them from fracture.
Who is it for?
- Ongoing toothache, especially with heat or when biting
- A tooth with a deep cavity or a crack reaching the nerve
- An abscess or swelling in the gum near a tooth
- A tooth that has darkened after a knock
What to expect
- 01
Diagnosis
We examine the tooth, test the nerve and take X-rays to confirm root canal treatment is needed.
- 02
Cleaning the canals
Under local anaesthetic, the infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned and disinfected. A medicated dressing may be placed between visits.
- 03
Sealing
Once the tooth has settled, the canals are filled and sealed to help stop bacteria getting back in.
- 04
Protecting the tooth
A filling or crown is placed to restore strength, particularly on back teeth that take heavy biting forces.
What should I expect after a root canal?
The tooth may feel tender for a few days, which over-the-counter pain relief usually manages. Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until the final filling or crown is in place. Call us if you have increasing pain or swelling.
Common questions
Treatment is done under local anaesthetic and most patients find it similar to having a filling. It is often the infection beforehand that causes the most pain.
Related treatments
- 01 Dental implants A fixed replacement for a missing tooth, anchored by a titanium post. $5,500
- 02 Crowns and bridges Ceramic crowns to protect weak teeth and bridges to fill a gap. $1,750
- 03 Check-ups and hygiene Six-monthly exams, scale and clean, and early detection of decay and gum disease. $245
Book root canal treatment
Book online in a minute, or call and talk to a real person at the front desk.
- Opening hours
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- Monday to Thursday08:00-19:00
- Friday08:00-17:00
- Saturday08:30-13:00
Book a visit
Choose a treatment and a time that suits you. We confirm by phone or email within one business day.