Root Canal Treatment
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has become infected or inflamed due to decay, trauma, or repeated dental work. Common causes include deep cavities, large fillings, cracks, or damage from injury. When the inner pulp of the tooth is compromised, the nerves inside can die, cutting off the tooth’s access to essential nutrients and moisture. If left untreated, this can lead to severe pain, infection, or even bone loss around the tooth.
Root canal therapy focuses on removing the damaged or infected pulp inside the tooth. If treatment is delayed, the infection may spread, forming an abscess or ultimately resulting in the loss of the tooth.
By seeking early root canal treatment at our Caringbah Dental Clinic, you can preserve your natural tooth, protect surrounding bone, and maintain long-term oral health. Early diagnosis and prompt care greatly increase treatment success. If you’re experiencing early signs of pulp inflammation, reach out to our experienced team at Caringbah Dental Surgery.
Common Symptoms of Pulp Inflammation
You may need root canal therapy if you notice:
Ongoing dull or throbbing tooth pain
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Tooth discolouration
- A bad taste or odour in the mouth
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don’t wait—schedule an assessment at Caringbah Dental Surgery as soon as possible.
What’s Involved in Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment typically requires 2 to 4 visits, depending on the extent of the infection. Here’s what to expect at Caringbah South Dental Clinic:
Visit 1: Cleaning and Initial Assessment
- X-ray imaging is used to examine the infected tooth and assess the length and structure of each canal.
- The infected pulp and tissues are carefully removed.
- The root canals are flushed with antibacterial solutions to eliminate bacteria and debris.
- An antibacterial dressing is applied, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling to prevent reinfection.
Follow-Up Visits: Sealing the Canals
- During your return visits to our Caringbah clinic, the canals are reopened, cleaned again, and thoroughly checked for any remaining infection.
- The root canals are then filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, which is sealed to the canal walls to prevent further bacterial contamination.
- Finally, the tooth is restored—often with a dental crown—to restore strength, function, and protection against future damage.
Specialist Referral for Complex Cases
In some cases, particularly when root canals are unusually long, curved, or blocked, your dentist may recommend a referral to a Specialist Endodontist in the Shire. Since general dentists use 2D imaging to navigate a 3D canal structure, more complex cases may require advanced equipment and expertise available through specialist care.
Book Your Root Canal Treatment at Shire Doctors and Dentists
Root canal therapy is a precise microsurgical procedure. While it is highly effective, your dentist will discuss all potential risks and treatment options with you. If your case requires specialist care, our team will coordinate a smooth and timely referral.
Call Now: (02) 9063 8650
Email: info@shiredoctorsanddentists.com.au
