Gold Coast Endodontics
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal (endodontic) treatment is a procedure where the roots of your tooth are cleaned and disinfected to remove inflammation and/or infection, and then filled with a rubberised material to prevent reinfection. Following root canal treatment your referring dentist will place a permanent restoration (often a crown) to reinforce the tooth and protect it against fracture.
Is root canal treatment painful?
All treatments are performed using local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and gums. After treatment pain relief is recommended following any root canal treatment. Your endodontist will discuss your specific needs and prescribe additional pain relief and antibiotics if required on a case-by-case basis.
Can anyone get root canal treatment?
Patients with extreme dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (inability to maintain opening), and an inability to recline to a horizontal position may struggle with root canal treatment. We do not currently have access to general anaesthetic facilities, but can prescribe anti-anxiety medication if a chaperone is available to escort you safely home.
Are there any alternatives to root canal treatment?
As endodontists we strive to help our patients keep their own teeth for life. Teeth with insufficient remaining structure, and teeth with fractures however may be better replaced with an implant, denture or bridge. If a tooth has a poor long- term prognosis we will refer you back to your general dentist to discuss these options further.
What are the benefits of root canal treatment?
Natural teeth have protective reflexes which reduce the chance of fracture when biting. Aesthetically the natural anatomy of adjacent teeth with fillings or crowns is difficult to replicate. Your natural tooth has superior aesthetics, strength and longevity to any prosthetic replacement currently available.
