1. What is a Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
A root canal is a dental procedure—also called endodontic therapy—that removes infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth), cleans and seals the canals, and restores the tooth with a filling or crown. This treatment helps save a damaged tooth and prevent further infection.
2. Why is an RCT needed?
You may need a root canal if bacteria have entered the pulp—due to deep decay, cracks, failed fillings, or trauma—leading to infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread to bone, causing pain or abscess.
3. What happens during the procedure?
The dentist or endodontist starts by taking X-rays and numbing the area. The infected pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned, shaped, and filled with biocompatible material like gutta-percha. Sometimes, a crown is placed to restore structural strength.
4. Is it painful?
Thanks to modern anesthetics and techniques, a root canal isn’t more painful than a regular filling. You might feel some soreness or discomfort for a few days afterward, but pain is typically manageable and fleeting.
5. How long does the treatment take?
The procedure usually spans one or two visits. Each visit typically lasts around 90 minutes, though some clinics offer faster options like single-visit laser RCTs.
6. How long do treated teeth last?
With proper care and restoration, root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime. Success is highly likely—over 90% in well-restored cases.
7. What are the risks or side effects?
Minor side effects may include temporary sensitivity, swelling, or mild discomfort. Persistent symptoms beyond a few days should be checked by your dentist. Rarely, retreatment may be necessary.
8. Will I need a crown afterward?
Often, yes. Restoring the tooth with a crown helps protect it from fracture and ensures long-term durability—especially for back teeth.
9. When should I see a dentist?
If you experience pain when chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, gum swelling, or a pimple-like bump near the tooth root, consult your dentist promptly. Early treatment prevents complications like abscesses.
10. Is it safe and reliable?
Yes. Root canals are a safe, effective, and reliable way to save healthy teeth. Modern procedures and technology have made them highly predictable with long-lasting outcomes.
Why Choose Pain Free Dentist Sydney for Your Root Canal?
If you're in Sydney and looking for an RCT that’s comfortable, high-quality, and stress-free, Pain Free Dentist Sydney is a standout choice:
They specialize in gentle, stress-free, pain-free root canals, using modern anesthetics and sedation when needed.
Located in Dulwich Hill, they offer IV sedation and other sedation options, ideal for nervous patients.
Their blog emphasizes that root canals "don’t have to be scary" and highlights their "pain-free, routine" approach.
Final Thoughts
Root canal treatment today is far from the dreaded procedure of yesteryear. It’s safe, efficient, pain-managed, and can save your natural tooth for decades. If you're in Sydney, Pain Free Dentist Sydney offers compassionate care and modern sedation options to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Need Help?
At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we offer gentle assessments and treatment for those with tooth pain.
Call us on (02) 9558 8988 or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au to book a consultation or learn more.
You can also book online at www.painfreedentistsydney.com.au!