Persistent toothache
Pain may be spontaneous, worsen on biting or continue after hot or cold stimulation.
Endodontic care
Root canal treatment in Edmondson Park
Root canal treatment removes infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, shapes and seals the root canal system to help retain the natural tooth.
A deep cavity, crack or injury can allow the tissue inside a tooth to become inflamed or infected. Root canal treatment addresses the internal infection; the tooth then needs an appropriate restoration to protect function.
Assessment before treatmentRecommendations follow an examination and relevant records.
Options explainedBenefits, limitations, stages and likely fees are discussed.
Referral where appropriateYour dentist may recommend specialist or medical care when needed.
An infection inside a tooth cannot be cured with antibiotics alone
Antibiotics may be used for particular spreading infections, but they do not remove infected pulp from inside the root canal system. Definitive treatment generally involves root canal care or removal of the tooth, depending on restorability and individual circumstances.
Swelling or a gum pimple
Local swelling, a draining spot or a bad taste may indicate infection around a tooth.
Darkened or injured tooth
Trauma can damage the pulp even when the outside of the tooth appears mostly intact.
Deep decay or crack
Bacteria can reach the pulp through extensive decay, a fracture or repeated dental work.
What to expect
Assessment and planning
Treatment recommendations depend on the findings, your health history and your preferences.
Diagnose and assess restorability
Examine symptoms, tooth structure and X-rays to determine whether root canal treatment is suitable.
Clean and disinfect
Under local anaesthetic, access the tooth and clean, shape and medicate the canal system as required.
Seal and restore
Fill the canals, then place a suitable filling or crown to protect the remaining tooth structure.
Compare the options
Root canal treatment and alternatives
| Option | Primary goal | Important consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Root canal treatment | Retain the natural tooth | May require several visits and a protective crown |
| Tooth extraction | Remove the infected or unrestorable tooth | Leaves a space and may lead to replacement planning |
| No treatment | Delay intervention | Infection may worsen and urgent symptoms can develop |
| Specialist referral | Manage complex anatomy or diagnosis | An endodontist provides advanced root canal care |
Common questions
Questions about root canal treatment
This page provides general information. A dentist needs to assess your mouth before recommending treatment. Risks, benefits, alternatives and likely costs vary.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment removes infected or damaged pulp, cleans and seals the canals inside a tooth, and helps retain the tooth when it is otherwise suitable to restore.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used during treatment. The tooth may feel tender afterwards, but this should be monitored and usually improves as healing progresses.
How many appointments are needed?
Some teeth can be treated in one visit, while others require several. The number depends on infection, anatomy, symptoms and the restorative plan.
Will the tooth need a crown?
Back teeth and teeth with substantial structure loss often need a crown or other protective restoration. Your dentist will assess the remaining tooth.
Can antibiotics fix a root canal infection?
Antibiotics do not remove infection from inside the root canal system. They may be prescribed for specific spreading infections alongside definitive dental treatment.
What if the tooth cannot be saved?
Extraction may be recommended if the tooth is severely fractured, lacks sufficient support or cannot be predictably restored. Replacement options can then be discussed.
Ask a dentist about root canal treatment
Arrange an assessment to discuss the concern, available options and likely fees.