Root Canal Treatment

Few patients welcome the recommendation of root canal therapy. Root canals have long been one of the most dreaded procedures, but their reputation may be unfair. Root canal treatment is designed to prevent a dental extraction in the presence of an infection in the tooth.

With modern developments and improved techniques, root canal therapy should feel no different than a common filling and actually relieves the painful symptoms associated with an infection. Both Dr Ben Dunster and Dr Clint Hazell prioritise dental emergencies and strive to treat them quickly – often on the same day.

Diagnosing the Need for a Root Canal

Symptoms indicating the need for a root canal often present suddenly and worsen over time. Here are some of the signs that you might indicate that you need root canal treatment:

• Swelling
• Pain
• Sensitivity
• Pain with pressure
• Discolouration of the tooth
• A small bump on the gums
• Jaw and facial pain

A toothache indicates a problem, and dental conditions will not typically resolve on their own. Pain is an indication that professional treatment is necessary. We welcome you to contact us at the first sign of an emergency.

When you arrive at our clinic, we will take a digital x-ray of the tooth to confirm the presence of an infection. If Ben or Clint recommends root canal treatment, we will make sure the area is anaesthetised before we begin. 

Your Root Canal Procedure

Patient comfort is important to us, and we never want the fear of pain to keep you from getting the dental care you need to stay healthy. Our friendly team will quickly put you at ease, and expert anaesthetic delivery means less discomfort and dental care you can feel confident about.

Ben or Clint will make a small cavity to access the canal and clean out the nerve and bacteria using precision rotary tools. This is the most advanced way to clean out infected teeth. Rotary endodontics improves successful procedures and decreases the amount of time that our patients need to spend in the chair.

Once all of the diseased tissue is removed, our dentists will place medication to assist with healing and prevent re-infection. We will then fill the canal to add stability and seal the tooth.

After your treatment, it is normal to feel sensitivity for a few days as your body heals and swelling decreases. Within about a week, you should feel completely normal. We may recommend placing a crown over your tooth to add strength, as root canal teeth become brittle and more susceptible to damage.

Toothache or Inflammation?

We welcome you to get in touch right away by telephoning our Hornsby dental clinic to arrange a visit so we can help you feel like yourself again.