Root canal treatment – Everything you need to know

  • General Dentistry   •   July  25, 2022

Root canal treatment – Everything you need to know

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is used to treat tooth decay and infection. Root Canal Treatment is required when the dental pulp that makes up the nerves of the tooth becomes infected. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about root canals! We will cover signs that you may need a root canal, what the procedure entails, how to prepare for it, and what to expect afterwards.

How do I know if I need a root canal procedure?

There are a few signs that you may need a root canal procedure. If you are experiencing any of the following, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible:

– Severe toothache that does not go away

– Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

– Pain on biting or chewing

– Tenderness in your gums

– A small bump on your gums

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to determine if you need a root canal procedure.

What does the root canal procedure entail?

The procedure entails removing the infected or damaged nerve tissue from your tooth, as well as any bacteria. Once the infected tissue is removed, your dentist will fill the tooth with a special material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a rubber-like material that is used to fill the canals. It is important to note that the root canal procedure does not remove the entire tooth. Only the damaged or infected tissue is removed.

The entire process typically takes place over 2-3 visits. 

How do I prepare for a root canal treatment procedure?

There are a few things you need to do in order to prepare for a root canal procedure.  First, you need to see your dentist for a consultation. During the consultation, your dentist will examine your tooth and determine if you need a root canal procedure. Depending on the severity of the infection, antibiotics may need to be prescribed prior to performing the procedure. 

What can I expect after a root canal procedure?

After a root canal procedure, it is normal to experience some discomfort. Your dentist will prescribe you pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort you may be experiencing.

You may also experience some swelling after the procedure. This is normal and will subside within a few days.

It is important to see your dentist for a follow-up appointment after your root canal procedure. During the follow-up appointment, they will check to make sure the procedure was successful and that you are healing properly.

Below are some commonly asked questions about root canals:

Is the procedure painful?

Root canals are generally not painful as your dentist will completely numb the tooth and surrounding gums.

How long does the procedure take?

The root canal procedure usually takes one to two hours to complete.

How much does the procedure cost?

The cost of a root canal procedure can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the severity of the infection, the tooth that is being treated, and the location of the tooth. In general, root canal procedures can cost anywhere from $500 to $3000.

Do you still have questions about the root canal treatment procedure?

If you still have questions about the root canal procedure, we encourage you to talk to your dentist. They will be able to answer any questions that you may have. Call us on 07 5591 3620 or use our online form to book a consultation.

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