Overview
What you should know
Rather than removing the affected tooth, root canal therapy aims to remove the infected or damaged pulp, clean the internal canals, and seal the tooth, allowing it to be preserved wherever possible.
At Footscray Dental Studio, we use advanced root canal treatment technology to support precise, efficient treatment.
What's Involved
Root canal therapy generally includes:
- Assessment — your dentist examines the tooth and takes an X-ray to assess the extent of infection or damage.
- Local anaesthetic — administered to ensure the area is numb and you remain comfortable throughout treatment.
- Access and cleaning — an opening is made to access the pulp chamber, and the infected or damaged pulp is removed. The canals are then cleaned and shaped.
- Filling the canal — the cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them.
- Restoration — the tooth is restored, often with a filling, and a crown may be recommended afterwards to protect and strengthen the tooth.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy
- Persistent or severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a tooth
- Darkening of a tooth
- A recurring pimple-like bump on the gum
Not every case presents obvious symptoms, so a dental examination and X-ray are important for an accurate diagnosis.
Is this right for you?
Who It's Suitable For
Root canal therapy may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, often due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma. It's generally aimed at patients who wish to preserve their natural tooth rather than have it extracted. Your dentist will assess whether root canal therapy is a suitable option for your specific tooth, or whether extraction and replacement may be more appropriate in some cases.
What to Expect Afterwards
Some mild discomfort or sensitivity is common in the days following treatment, which typically settles over time. Your dentist will provide guidance on managing this and will discuss whether a crown is recommended to protect the treated tooth going forward.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
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