Root Canal Treatment

This procedure is required when a tooth is heavily affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria and any decay are removed. After cleaning and re-shaping the canal cavity, fillers are inserted to prevent bacteria from re-entering the nerve system. 

Most often root canals are performed to retain functionality and aesthetics within a tooth. Many patients believe removing a tooth that has problems is the only solution. However, restoring a natural tooth with therapy can be cheaper than implants and cause less problems for adjacent teeth.

Root Canal Therapy is also known as Endodontic treatment.

Root canal treatment may be recommended when the inner part of a tooth, known as the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, repeated dental work, or trauma.

Common signs that root canal treatment in Geelong may be needed include persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, tenderness, or discomfort when biting.

Root canal treatment involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth, carefully cleaning and disinfecting the canal, and then sealing it to prevent further infection. The tooth is then restored, often with a filling or crown, to protect its structure and function.

At Geelong Dental Centre, we take a gentle and measured approach, explaining each step of the process so you know what to expect.

Modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Local anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable during the procedure, and most patients find the experience similar to having a routine filling.

After treatment, some mild tenderness may occur, but this usually settles within a few days and can be managed with simple pain relief.

Whenever possible, preserving your natural tooth is the best outcome for your long term oral health. Root canal treatment allows an infected or damaged tooth to be treated and retained, rather than removed.

Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain normal chewing and biting function and supports the natural alignment of your surrounding teeth. When a tooth is lost, neighbouring teeth can gradually shift into the empty space, which may affect your bite, jaw comfort and overall oral health over time.