Mon–Fri 8am–5pmSaturday By appointment onlySunday Closed
Call (02) 4216 99117/9-25 Captain Cook Dr, Barrack Heights NSW 2528Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment cleans out an infected or damaged tooth nerve so a dentist can try to keep the tooth.
Fees, private health benefits and third-party payment arrangements vary. Please confirm current details before relying on an option.
Root Canal Treatment
Pain on biting, lingering hot or cold sensitivity, or swelling near a tooth can be signs of inflamed or infected pulp, the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. Decay, cracks, injury or repeated dental work can affect it. We assess the tooth before discussing whether root canal treatment may help retain it. It is part of general dentistry in Shellharbour.
Not every tooth can be retained, and root canal treatment can need further care or fail. Removal may be an alternative. We can explain the outlook for your tooth, the consequences of a gap and replacement options such as crowns and bridges. Some cases need an endodontist, a dentist who specialises in root canal treatment.
Possible risks include infection that returns, a broken instrument, injury to the root, discolouration or root-filling material extending short of or beyond the intended position. We can explain which risks matter for your tooth and the restoration needed afterwards. Our tooth coloured fillings information and dental check-up and clean information cover related care. Ask about IV sedation if anxiety is a concern.
Call 000 or go to an emergency department for trouble breathing or swallowing, a very swollen mouth or tongue, or substantial bleeding into the throat. For other dental pain or swelling, seek prompt dental advice through our emergency dentist information or call (02) 4216 9911.
Root canal treatment starts from $1,400. The fee depends on the tooth and complexity of treatment. We provide a written plan explaining the proposed care, including the final filling or crown and any separate fees. See our questions about dental fees, patient offers and terms and payment options, or contact our team. You can compare removal or seek a second opinion before deciding.
These signs do not prove a root canal is needed. They are reasons to have the tooth checked.
Treatment starts with an X-ray and local anaesthetic to numb the area. The dentist usually places a rubber dam to keep the tooth clean and dry, makes a small opening to reach the pulp, then cleans, shapes and disinfects the root canals. The canals are filled and sealed. A root canal treatment may take one appointment or several.
The tooth is then restored with a filling or a crown to protect it and restore its function. Ask the dentist which suits your tooth. After treatment, mild discomfort can follow. Ask about pain medication, any food you should avoid and when you can return to normal activities. Contact the clinic if the discomfort lasts longer than the dentist told you to expect, and keep the follow-up appointment for the filling or crown, because the tooth needs that final restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
These general answers can help you prepare questions for an individual conversation.
Root canal treatment in Shellharbour may be an option for keeping a tooth whose inner tissue is damaged or infected. Treatment removes that tissue and fills the spaces inside the roots. The decision starts with understanding what has happened to your tooth and whether keeping it is realistic.
Related information: crowns and bridges information.
Call or book online and say what you would like help with. Ask what your visit includes and what it costs. At the visit, discuss your concerns with the dentist; you can review any proposed treatment and its costs before deciding.
