A root canal treatment is an endodontic procedure used to repair and save a severely infected or badly decayed tooth. It helps to relieve pain and make the tooth healthy.
During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp tissues are removed. After which, the inside of a tooth is disinfected and cleaned before it gets sealed with a filling.
With treatment, the tooth can recover and revert to its normal functions. Otherwise, the tooth may have to be extracted.
The root canal is the space within the roots of a tooth that contains dental pulp.
The pulp is a soft tissue that extends from the crown to the tip of the roots and contains nerves and blood vessels.
As a result of tooth decay or injury, the pulp can become inflamed. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the tissue around the tooth and abscesses may form.
To save the natural tooth, root canal treatment removes the nerves and pulp within the tooth and cleans it before sealing it.
Without the pulp, the tooth can still remain healthy by receiving nourishment from the surrounding tissues. The removal of the nerves will only affect the ability of the tooth to detect hot or cold temperatures.
A root canal is typically needed when the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen for several reasons, including:
When cavities are left untreated, they can grow deeper, reaching the pulp of the tooth, causing infection or inflammation.
A tooth that is cracked, chipped, or severely injured may expose the pulp, leading to infection.
Multiple fillings or dental procedures on the same tooth can cause damage to the pulp, making it more vulnerable to infection.
Advanced gum disease can affect the roots of teeth, potentially leading to pulp damage and the need for a root canal.
Root canal treatment may be indicated for a fractured tooth due to injury or a badly decayed tooth.
As a general guideline, a root canal may be required when you display any of the following symptoms:
Root canal treatment prevents your natural teeth from being extracted, giving you a more confident and natural smile.
When the dental pulp is inflamed or infected, this can cause pain. Root canal treatment, therefore, helps to resolve this sensation.
By removing any abscesses, root canal treatment helps to reduce the chances of oral infections.
After the root canal treatment procedure, a crown will be placed over your natural tooth. This restores the appearance of your tooth, giving you a confident smile.
The price of a root canal treatment can cost between $545 to $1,417 (inclusive of GST), depending on the severity of your condition.
The initial consultation is priced from $21.80 to $54.50 (inclusive of GST) and a crown can range between $763 and $1,417 (inclusive of GST), depending on the type of material used.
Root canal treatments are not covered by MediSave. However, CHAS subsidies are available for up to two root canal treatments and up to 4 permanent crowns per calendar year. The table below shows the breakdown of available subsidies:
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our team of experts ensures that you receive quality treatment.
At i.Dental, we ensure that we keep up to date with technology – we use the Lightwalker laser system for increased patient comfort and efficiency.
We make dentistry more convenient for you. As a provider of comprehensive dental treatment, we offer a wide range of dental services. From dental check-up to orthodontic treatment, we’ve got you covered.
Contrary to what you read on the internet, the goal of a root canal treatment is not to cause you pain but to help you relieve it.
Most people can expect to feel a mild pain that should subside in a few days following the treatment. Extended periods of pain could indicate that something is wrong. Contact your dentist as soon as possible if the pain persists.
Root canal treatment is a common procedure that can help to save your natural tooth. As it is a delicate procedure, there are some potential side effects, although uncommon:
The chances of these situations occurring is generally low. The success of the procedure is dependent on each individual’s condition and medical history and the dentist’s experience.
Root canal treatment is generally safe and effective, but like any dental procedure, it comes with some risks. These may include:
Your dentist will take all necessary precautions to reduce these risks and ensure a successful outcome.
At times, the decay or fracture may be serious enough that it affects the integrity of the tooth and root structure. Root canal treatment will not be suitable in such cases as there is a possibility of failing.
A more suitable alternative would be dental extraction, where your tooth is extracted and replaced with a denture, bridge or implant. This helps to restore chewing, prevent shifting of teeth and reduce risks of gum diseases.
However, root canal treatment is the preferred treatment (if possible) as it fixes your natural tooth.
For a speedy recovery post-root canal treatment, you should take the following measures:
A root canal treated tooth loses its tooth structure and makes it more prone to fracture. For that reason, a crown is required to provide proper protection against the strong forces of chewing and biting.
Root-canal treated teeth are more brittle and susceptible to fractures. As such, you should avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth to minimise the stress placed on it.
After treatment, it is imperative that you stick to an oral care routine to maintain your crown and avoid future tooth infections. This consists of brushing your teeth thoroughly and gently, flossing, and attending regular checkups and cleaning sessions.
You are advised to have plenty of rest after the treatment, but you should be able to get back to work the next day. Consult your dentist for more detailed aftercare instructions.
About 90% of root canals last up to 8 – 10 years with proper care.
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