root canal treatment

Root Canal Treatment Explained 

Are you feeling a bit anxious about getting a root canal treatment? You’re not alone. Many people feel the same way, but the good news is that it’s a straightforward and often pain-free procedure. Let’s walk you through what a root canal is, how it works, and what you can expect.

A root canal treatment is a way to fix a tooth that has an infection in its core. This infection can happen due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or even a previous injury. The idea is to clean out the infected area, seal it up, and save your natural tooth.

Now, let’s tackle the big question: Does it hurt? Thanks to modern dental technology and anaesthetics, root canals are usually no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. The treatment helps to relieve the pain caused by the infection, so you’ll feel much better afterward.

A root canal treatment often involves a few stages, totalling approximately one to three appointments overall. In your appointment, you can expect: 

  • Exam and local anaesthesia: Your dentist will examine the tooth and use a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. 
  • Cleaning the canals: The dentist will make a small opening in the tooth to reach the infected part inside. They’ll remove the infected tissue and clean out the root canals.
  • Sealing the canals: Once clean, the canals are filled with a material called gutta-percha to seal and prevent the infection from coming back. 
  • Restoring the tooth: Once the root canal has been completed, sometimes your dentist will recommend a crown to protect the tooth. 

In Melbourne, the cost of a root canal can vary. Generally, you’re looking at around $800 to $1500 for the root canal itself. If you need a crown, that can add an additional cost of approximately $1800 to the overall cost.  The overall cost depends on which tooth is being treated and how complex the procedure is.

Understanding the process can make it a lot less scary. Remember, the goal is to save your tooth and get rid of the pain. If you have any more questions or want to book an appointment, we’re here to help. Your comfort and dental health are very important to us!

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