Root Canal Therapy

What is involved in Root Canal Therapy?

If you have a tooth that is damaged or infected with heavy decay, a root canal may be recommended by your dentist. The root canal procedure involves the following:

Taking a series of X-rays to determine the size and shape of the roots
Making an incision in the affected tooth
Removing the dead, infected or inflamed tooth pulp (nerve roots)
Disinfecting the space in the tooth needed for the canal
Sealing the space to prevent the spread of bacteria with a filling substance

Why choose Root Canal Therapy?

There are many reasons why you may choose root canal therapy for an infected or damaged tooth. Here are just a few of them:

Avoid removing your natural tooth
Enhance the aesthetics of your teeth
Prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth
Avoid degeneration of your jawbone
Administered with minimal pain
Prevent future tooth loss
Get back to pain-free living promptly in as little as two appointments

When should I get Root Canal Therapy?

For a root canal treatment to be feasible, it’s important to act quickly. If you are concerned about a painful tooth, don’t hesitate to contact us as soon as possible. By booking a treatment quickly, you may be able to save your teeth!

Is Root Canal Therapy painful?

Root Canal Therapy in the past was often considered fairly painful however, modern dental procedures have rendered the process virtually pain free. If this is of great concern to you, we can also perform root canal therapy under general anaesthetic.

Post Root Canal Therapy Advice

Following your root canal therapy, the treated tooth will be more brittle than usual so it may be advisable for a crown to be fitted over the top.

How long will it take to recover from Root Canal Therapy?

Most patients will feel general irritation and soreness for 24-48 hours after the treatment and will be back to normal after a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief will be prescribed by your dentist to alleviate any discomfort.

What if I have a dental phobia or anxiety?

At Cairns Dental Anaesthetic Centre, we are passionate about working with you to minimise your anxiety around your dental appointments and treatments. If your phobia is especially bad, we can even offer sedation.