Root Canal Therapy in Brisbane CBD
Root canal therapy may help retain a tooth affected by inflammation, infection or a crack involving the nerve. Treatment aims to remove infection, protect the surrounding tissues and preserve the tooth where possible.
Your comfort is our priority.
Our highly qualified dentists are experienced in performing root canals – in fact, we use local anaesthetic and modern techniques to make treatment as comfortable as possible.
We care deeply about your overall health and wellbeing as well as your dental health and hygiene, and we take time to explain the procedure, expected outcomes and aftercare. We go out of our way to make you feel as relaxed and reassured as possible – we’re here for you.
What happens during my treatment?
Root canal treatment is a common type of endodontic treatment that is used to treat a tooth that has become infected or inflamed. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and filling and sealing it with a material to prevent further infection. Here’s what you can expect from the procedure:
1
Diagnosis
Our dentist examines your tooth and assesses whether root canal treatment is an appropriate option for the tooth. This is usually due to significant tooth decay, a deep infection, or trauma to the tooth.
2
Root Canal Treatment
The dentist performs the root canal procedure, which involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and then filling them with a biocompatible material. This process may require one or more visits, depending on the complexity of the case.
3
Temporary Filling
After completing the root canal treatment, our dentist will place a temporary filling in the tooth to protect it until a permanent restoration can be placed. Some discomfort or sensitivity may occur after treatment. Your dentist will discuss appropriate pain relief and when to contact the practice if symptoms persist or worsen.
4
Crown Preparation
Once the tooth has healed, our dentist will typically recommend placing a crown to protect and strengthen the tooth. Before the crown can be placed, the tooth needs to be prepared. This involves reshaping the tooth to make room for the crown.
5
Crown Fabrication
Impressions of the prepared tooth are taken, which are sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the custom crown. This process usually takes a couple of weeks, but our onsite laboratory can assist with coordination of crown fabrication where appropriate.
6
Crown Placement
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return for the final appointment. The temporary filling is removed, and the permanent crown is bonded or cemented onto the tooth.
It’s important to note that the timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances and the treatment plan.
At Bite Dental Studios, our dentists are experienced in providing root canal treatment. We aim to keep you informed throughout treatment and discuss the restoration required after root canal therapy
When is root canal treatment necessary?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is possible that you may need a root canal:
- Severe pain when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth.
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source of the temperature change has been removed.
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums surrounding the affected tooth, or signs of a tooth infection or gum disease
- Discoloration or darkening of the affected tooth.
- A small pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth, which may indicate an abscess.
- A tooth that feels loose or wobbly.
- Pain that wakes you up at night.
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
- Previous dental work on the tooth that has failed or caused ongoing problems.
- A crack or chip in the tooth that has exposed the root canal system.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal but are unsure whether the treatment is necessary, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly staff. Our experienced dental team will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether we recommend root canal treatment. Our top priority is to provide you with comfortable and stress-free dental care, and we will assess the tooth and discuss whether root canal treatment, extraction or another option is appropriate.
We believe in offering dental treatment to all of our patients, regardless of their financial situation, but we also understand that the cost of dental root canal treatment can be a concern for some. To help alleviate this concern, we work closely with Brisbane private health insurance providers to provide information about available health-fund rebates and treatment costs.
Risks and Limitations
Risks and Limitations
How do I try to avoid needing root canal treatment?
While root canal treatment may be used to manage infected or inflamed teeth, it’s always better to try and prevent dental problems from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help you avoid needing root canal treatment:
1
Practice good oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Good oral hygiene can help to keep your teeth healthy and avoid the need for root canal treatment.
2
Get regular dental checkups
Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help to detect and treat dental problems before they become more serious. By catching issues early, you may be able to avoid the need for root canal treatment.
3
Avoid sugary and acidic foods
Sugary and acidic foods can contribute to tooth decay and erosion, which can lead to the need for root canal treatment. Try to limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and opt for healthier options like fruits and vegetables.
4
Wear a mouthguard
If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouth guard can help protect your teeth from damage and reduce your risk of needing root canal treatment.
5
Treat dental problems promptly
If you experience any dental pain or notice any changes in your teeth or gums, it’s important to see your dentist right away. Treating dental problems promptly can help to prevent them from becoming more serious and reduce your risk of needing root canal treatment.