Root Canal Treatment: What to Expect, Cost, and Recovery

Root Canal Treatment: What to Expect, Cost, and Recovery

If you've been told you need a root canal, you might be feeling nervous — but don’t worry. Modern root canal treatment is safe, effective, and relatively pain-free. It’s one of the best ways to save a badly damaged or infected tooth and avoid extraction.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a root canal is, signs you might need one, what the procedure involves, recovery tips, and costs in Australia.

What Is a Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth) and replaces it with a filling to seal and protect the tooth.
It allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoid infection spreading, and eliminate pain caused by deep decay or trauma.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

You may need root canal therapy if you experience:

• Persistent toothache or throbbing pain

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers

• Swollen gums near the affected tooth

• Discolouration or darkening of the tooth

• A pimple or abscess on the gum

• Pain when chewing or touching the tooth

Your dentist will confirm the diagnosis using X-rays and clinical tests.

Step-by-Step: How a Root Canal Is Done

1. Numbing the Area

Your dentist will administer local anaesthetic to ensure you're completely comfortable.

2. Removing the Infected Pulp

A small hole is made in the tooth to remove the infected pulp and clean out the root canals.

3. Disinfection and Shaping

The canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate bacteria.

4. Filling the Root Canals

The empty canals are filled with a special material called gutta-percha, then sealed.

5. Final Restoration

A crown or filling is placed to restore the tooth’s strength and function.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Contrary to popular belief, a root canal doesn’t cause pain — it actually relieves it.
With modern technology and local anaesthetic, the procedure feels similar to getting a deep filling. You may feel mild soreness afterwards, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Root Canal Recovery Tips

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final crown is placed

• Brush and floss gently around the area

• Take any prescribed medication as directed

• Mild discomfort is normal for a few days, but contact your dentist if pain worsens

How Long Does a Root Canal Last?

With proper care, a tooth treated with a root canal can last 10–15 years or longer, especially if it's restored with a crown.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost in Australia?

The cost of a root canal depends on how many canals are treated and whether a crown is needed.
In Australia, the average price is from $1,500 to $5,000. Dental health insurance may cover part of the cost, depending on your policy.

Root Canal vs Extraction: Which Is Better?

Whenever possible, it’s better to save your natural tooth. A root canal allows you to keep your original tooth structure, maintain your bite, and avoid shifting of nearby teeth.
Tooth extraction may seem cheaper short term, but replacing a lost tooth with an implant or bridge can cost much more long term.

Final Thoughts

Root canal treatment is a proven, safe, and highly effective way to save an infected or damaged tooth.
It stops pain, prevents infection, and helps you keep your natural smile for years to come.

If you're experiencing tooth pain or think you might need a root canal, book a consultation today and let’s get you out of pain and back to smiling confidently!

For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us at 9558 8988 or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au.

You can also enjoy hassle-free booking directly through our website!

We invite you to visit our clinic at Shop G01A, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park, NSW 2193. We look forward to welcoming you!

Dental Implant Bridge: The Perfect Solution for Multiple Missing Teeth

If you’re missing several teeth in a row, a dental implant bridge could be the ideal solution to restore your smile, function, and confidence — without needing an implant for every single missing tooth.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what a dental implant bridge is, the procedure, healing time, costs, and why it's often the best long-term option for multiple missing teeth.

What Is a Dental Implant Bridge?

A dental implant bridge is a type of restoration that replaces several missing teeth at once by anchoring an artificial bridge onto two or more dental implants.
Instead of placing an implant for each missing tooth, implants are strategically positioned to support a series of prosthetic teeth, making the process less invasive and more cost-effective.

Who Needs a Dental Implant Bridge?

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have 3 or more missing teeth in a row

• Have sufficient bone density in the jaw

• Want a permanent solution without removable dentures

• Want to preserve surrounding natural teeth without crowns

If you’re not sure, a consultation with an experienced implant dentist will determine if a dental implant bridge is right for your specific case.

How Does a Dental Implant Bridge Work?

1. Consultation and Planning

Your dentist will perform digital scans, X-rays, and create a detailed plan for implant placement.

2. Implant Placement

Two or more implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone at key points to act as anchors for the bridge.

3. Healing and Osseointegration (3–6 Months)

Your implants will naturally fuse with the bone, creating a strong, stable foundation.

4. Temporary Restoration (Optional)

Some patients receive a temporary bridge during the healing phase for function and aesthetics.

5. Final Bridge Placement

After healing, a custom-made bridge of artificial teeth is securely attached to the implants.

Benefits of a Dental Implant Bridge

• Stronger and more stable than removable dentures

• Preserves jawbone health by stimulating bone growth

• No need to grind down healthy teeth (unlike traditional dental bridges)

• Natural look and feel

• Easier to clean and maintain compared to full dentures

Healing Time for a Dental Implant Bridge

Healing usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on factors like bone health and your overall healing ability.
During this time, the implants bond with the jawbone, ensuring a long-lasting, secure fit for your new bridge.

How Much Does a Dental Implant Bridge Cost?

Costs vary based on the number of implants, the materials used, and the location of the dental clinic.
In Australia, a dental implant bridge can range from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on how many teeth are being replaced and the complexity of the case.

While it’s an investment, it's important to consider that a dental implant bridge offers decades of function, aesthetics, and comfort compared to cheaper, temporary alternatives.

Dental Implant Bridge vs Traditional Bridge

FeatureDental Implant BridgeTraditional Dental BridgeStabilityPermanent, anchored to boneAnchored to natural teethEffect on Surrounding TeethNo damage to adjacent teethRequires grinding down teethBone HealthPreserves jawboneDoes not stimulate jawboneLongevity15+ years with proper care7–10 years

Final Thoughts

If you're missing multiple teeth and want a permanent, natural-looking solution, a dental implant bridge offers outstanding stability, appearance, and function.
It’s an investment in your health, confidence, and quality of life.

Ready to find out if a dental implant bridge is right for you?
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile!

For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us at 9558 8988 or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au.

You can also enjoy hassle-free booking directly through our website!

We invite you to visit our clinic at Shop G01A, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park, NSW 2193. We look forward to welcoming you!

Full Mouth Dental Implants Explained

If you're missing most or all of your teeth, full mouth dental implants could be the life-changing solution you've been looking for. This revolutionary technique allows you to restore an entire arch of teeth — top or bottom — using just four implants.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the All-on-4 dental implant procedure, healing time, costs, and why so many people are choosing this method for a full smile makeover.

What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants?

Full mouth dental implants, often done using the All-on-4 technique, involve using a minimal number of implants (usually four to six) to support an entire arch of prosthetic teeth.
Instead of replacing each missing tooth individually, this method provides a strong, stable, and natural-looking full set of teeth with fewer implants and faster recovery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Full Mouth Implants?

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have lost most or all of your teeth

• Have damaged or failing teeth needing replacement

• Currently wear dentures but want a more stable, permanent solution

• Have enough jawbone density (or qualify for minor bone grafting)

An experienced implant dentist can assess your situation with 3D imaging to see if you're suitable for full mouth implants.

Step-by-Step: How Full Mouth Dental Implants Work

1. Consultation and 3D Imaging

Detailed scans help your dentist plan the placement of your implants with precision.

2. Tooth Removal and Implant Surgery

If necessary, remaining teeth are removed. Four implants are placed strategically into the jawbone, often tilting the back implants for better stability.

3. Immediate Temporary Teeth

In most cases, temporary teeth are attached the same day — meaning you leave the clinic with a full smile.

4. Healing and Osseointegration (3–6 months)

During this time, your implants fuse naturally with your jawbone, creating a strong foundation.

5. Final Prosthesis Placement

Once healed, your final custom-designed teeth — made of durable materials like zirconia — are securely attached.

Why Choose Full Mouth Dental Implants?

• Immediate results — a full smile the same day

• Permanent solution — no slipping like dentures

• Preserves bone and maintains facial structure

• Natural look and feel — chew, speak, and smile confidently

• Long-term investment — decades of durability with proper care

How Long Do Full Mouth Dental Implants Last?

When cared for properly, full mouth implants can last 15–20 years or more.
The implants themselves are designed to be permanent, while the prosthetic teeth (the bridge) may need replacement after 10–15 years depending on wear.

How Much Do Full Mouth Dental Implants Cost?

The cost varies based on materials, your dentist’s expertise, and your location, but in Australia, full mouth dental implants generally cost between $23,000 to $30,000 per arch.
It may seem like a big investment, but compared to replacing each tooth individually, it’s a more affordable and efficient long-term solution.

All-on-4 vs Traditional Full Mouth Implants: What's the Difference?

FeatureAll-on-4 ImplantsTraditional Full ImplantsNumber of Implants4 per arch6–8 per archBone GraftingRarely neededOften neededTime to Smile CompletionSame-day temporary teethMultiple stagesCostMore affordableHigher

Final Thoughts

Full mouth dental implants offer a permanent, secure, and stunning solution for missing teeth. Whether you’ve been struggling with dentures or significant tooth loss, this treatment can restore not only your smile but also your confidence and quality of life.

Ready to explore your options?
Book a consultation today and take the first step toward your brand-new smile!

For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us at 9558 8988 or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au.

You can also enjoy hassle-free booking directly through our website!

We invite you to visit our clinic at Shop G01A, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park, NSW 2193. We look forward to welcoming you!