Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Root Canal Therapy

How can we help you?

When it comes to the oral health of you and your family, you probably have many questions. We welcome them because we love providing guidance about good dental health.

There are some questions we here frequently, and we have included some of them here. But if you have a question that is not answered here, feel free to contact us. You can call our practice for an immediate answer.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment has an unfair reputation for being painful. In reality, root canal treatment is a pain-relieving procedure. If you need root canal therapy in Charlestown, chances are you already have a toothache or may develop one.

We use root canal therapy to clear away potentially painful root infections and trauma, and the first step is diagnosis.  

The Root Canal Treatment Process in Charlestown

Your dentist will look at your tooth—and may take an x-ray—to diagnose root infection. The treatment itself calls for numbing the area, making a tiny hole, and removing the infected tissue. Your dentist in Charlestown may then pack the tooth with a healing agent and close with a temporary filling to promote healing.

Your dentist provides a tooth-coloured filling or a dental crown to restore your tooth’s function at your follow-up appointment. The decision to go with a filling or crown is based on the stability of your treated tooth.

You can lower your risks for root infections by visiting your dentist regularly for exams and teeth cleanings.

For a Toothache Assessment, We Welcome Your Call

Typically, root infections come with toothaches—unless they are only emerging. If you have a toothache, or if it’s time for your next dental check-up, we encourage you to reach out to a friendly team member today.

A root canal in Charlestown, NSW, might be necessary due to various dental issues:

Deep Tooth Decay

When tooth decay reaches the pulp (the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels), a root canal becomes essential to save the tooth.

Infection or Abscess

A root canal removes the infected pulp, alleviating pain and preventing the spread of infection.

Trauma or Injury

Dental trauma or injury can damage the tooth's nerve, requiring a root canal to save the tooth.

Repeated Dental Procedures

Teeth that have undergone multiple dental treatments may require a root canal due to tooth structure damage or weakening.

Benefits of a Root Canal

  • Pain Relief: Root canal treatment relieves pain caused by tooth decay, infection or injury.
  • Prevents Further Damage: By removing the infected or damaged pulp, a root canal prevents further deterioration and potential tooth loss.
  • Saves Natural Tooth: The procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth, maintaining your natural bite and preventing other teeth from shifting.
  • Improved Oral Health: A successful root canal contributes to overall oral health, preventing the spread of infection to other teeth or the jawbone.

Ready to Give Us a Ring?

If you're experiencing tooth pain, swelling or sensitivity, we invite you to consult our Charlestown dentist, Dr Cameron, to determine if a root canal is necessary. We would love to help you restore your smile! 

Root canal treatment generally has a high success rate (80-95 per cent). At Charlestown Dental Care, our dentists use the latest technology and gentle techniques to ensure you're comfortable throughout your procedure. A root canal eliminates the pain of a tooth infection, while also preserving your natural tooth structure. 

Understanding Root Canals

However, there are some cases where a root canal can fail and may require retreatment. 

Root canal failure can result from hidden cracks or complex cases with multiple canals. If your root canal fails, you may notice signs such as:

  • Tooth pain or sensitivity
  • Facial swelling
  • Tooth discolouration
  • A white blister or pimple on the gums

If you’re concerned about root canal failure, contact your Charlestown dentist right away for an examination. Many root canal failures can be successfully retreated.

Do You Need a Root Canal in Charlestown?

At Charlestown Dental Care, your comfort is our priority. Whether treating or retreating a tooth that needs a root canal, we’ll ensure you feel comfortable throughout your procedure. We do this by using a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth and with the gentle skills of our dentists.

We invite you to contact our team on (02) 4942 1633 if you have questions, concerns, or need to schedule a root canal in Charlestown.

Improve your smile today – call to schedule a consultation!