Address
7/151 Cowper Street
Dickson ACT, 2602
Opening Hours
Mon-Thu 9-5pm
Fri 8-3pm
Sat (alternating) 9-5pm
Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics)
Experience Pain Relief with Root Canal Treatment at Dickson Park Dental Surgery
If you're experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, you might be facing an infection inside your tooth. At Dickson Park Dental Surgery in Dickson, Canberra, we understand that the thought of a root canal can be daunting. However, modern root canal treatment is a highly effective procedure designed to save your natural tooth, relieve your pain, and prevent further infection.
Our compassionate team uses advanced techniques and provides a comfortable environment to ensure your experience is as gentle and pain-free as possible. Don't let tooth pain impact your life – discover how we can help you get back to smiling comfortably.
What is a Root Canal (Endodontic Treatment)?
A root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a common dental procedure aimed at treating infection or inflammation in the soft inner part of your tooth called the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, extending from the crown of your tooth down to the tip of its roots.
When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause significant pain and if left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to serious health issues and ultimately tooth loss. A root canal allows us to remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and then seal it to prevent future infection. It's a way to keep your natural tooth!
Why Might You Need a Root Canal in Canberra?
You might need a root canal if the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen due to several reasons, including:
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Deep decay: A severe cavity that reaches the pulp.
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Repeated dental procedures: Multiple fillings or procedures on the same tooth.
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Cracked or chipped tooth: An injury that exposes the pulp to bacteria.
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Trauma: A blow to the tooth, even without visible damage, can injure the pulp.
Common Signs You Might Need a Root Canal:
While only a dentist can confirm the need for a root canal, common symptoms include:
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Severe toothache pain when chewing or applying pressure.
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Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures (after the hot/cold stimulus has been removed).
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Discolouration or darkening of the tooth.
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Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums.
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A recurring or persistent pimple-like lesion on the gums.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to contact Dickson Park Dental Surgery promptly for an accurate diagnosis and effective pain relief.
The Root Canal Procedure at Dickson Park Dental Surgery
Modern root canal treatment is a routine procedure, often completed over a few visits to our Dickson, Canberra clinic. Our team prioritises your comfort throughout the process:
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Diagnosis & Anaesthesia: We'll examine your tooth, take X-rays, and numb the area thoroughly with local anaesthesia. You should feel no pain during the procedure.
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Access Opening: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp chamber and root canals.
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Cleaning & Shaping: Tiny instruments are used to carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp, and the inside of the root canals are meticulously cleaned and shaped. We use advanced techniques to ensure thorough disinfection.
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Filling the Canals: Once clean, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to seal them off and prevent re-infection.
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Temporary Filling: A temporary filling is placed to close the opening in the tooth.
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Final Restoration: In most cases, a dental crown is recommended after a root canal. This is because the tooth can become brittle after the pulp is removed and needs protection to prevent future fractures. The crown will restore the tooth's full strength and appearance.
With a successful root canal and proper restoration, your treated tooth can last a lifetime, functioning just like your other natural teeth.
The Benefits of Saving Your Natural Tooth with a Root Canal
Choosing root canal treatment over extraction offers numerous advantages for your oral health and overall well-being:
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Saves Your Natural Tooth: The primary benefit is preserving your own tooth, which is always the best option if possible.
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Effective Pain Relief: Root canal treatment eliminates the source of the infection, providing significant and lasting relief from tooth pain.
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Maintains Chewing Efficiency: You can continue to chew and eat normally with your natural tooth.
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Protects Other Teeth: Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting or becoming misaligned, which can happen if a tooth is extracted.
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Preserves Natural Appearance: Keeps your natural smile intact, especially when a crown is placed to match your other teeth.
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Cost-Effective: Often, saving your natural tooth with a root canal and crown is more cost-effective than extracting the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant or bridge.
Trust the team at Dickson Park Dental Surgery to provide expert root canal treatment, preserving your smile and relieving your discomfort in Canberra.