Root Canal Treatment: Everything You’re Searching For (Answered!)

If you've been told you need a root canal, you're probably feeling a little nervous and have a hundred questions. Don’t worry—we’re here to explain everything in plain English. Root canals are more common (and far less scary) than most people think.

Here are the top questions people search about root canal treatment—with answers to help you feel informed and confident.

🦷 What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue (called pulp) from inside your tooth. The area is cleaned, sealed, and restored—usually with a crown—to save the tooth and stop the pain.

How do I know if I need one?

You might need a root canal if you have:

• Persistent toothache, especially when chewing

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers

• Swelling or tenderness in the gums

• A darkened or discoloured tooth

• A pimple-like bump on the gum

If you're experiencing any of these, it's worth getting checked by your dentist.

Does it hurt?

This is the #1 fear—but the truth is, a root canal doesn't hurt. With modern anaesthesia, the procedure feels similar to getting a filling. Most patients are relieved that the pain stops after treatment.

How long does it take?

Most root canal treatments take 1 to 2 visits. Each session can last 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the tooth and how complex the root system is.

Is it better than just pulling the tooth out?

Yes! Whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the best option. Extracting a tooth can lead to other issues—like shifting teeth, bite changes, and needing implants or bridges, which can be more costly and time-consuming.

Will my tooth be weak afterwards?

Once the pulp is removed, the tooth can become more brittle. That’s why most root canals are followed by a crown to protect and strengthen the tooth for long-term use.

Is a root canal permanent?

When done properly and followed by a good restoration, root canals are highly successful and can last a lifetime. Proper oral care and regular checkups are key.

Can a root canal fail?

It’s rare, but yes—it can happen. If bacteria remain or re-enter the canal, a retreatment or minor surgery (called an apicoectomy) may be needed. This is usually successful.

What can I eat after the treatment?

Stick to soft foods for the first few days—think mashed potatoes, soups, yoghurt, scrambled eggs. Avoid chewing on the treated side until your crown or final restoration is in place.

Can I have a root canal while pregnant?

Yes! Root canals are considered safe during pregnancy. Your dentist will use pregnancy-safe medications and take precautions with X-rays. Always let your dental team know if you’re expecting.

When should I call my dentist?

If you have tooth pain that won’t go away, swelling in the gums or face, or signs of infection, don’t delay. Early treatment means less pain, fewer complications, and better outcomes.

Final Word

Root canal therapy might sound intimidating, but it’s a straightforward, pain-relieving procedure that saves your natural tooth and prevents bigger problems down the track. Don’t put off treatment—let’s get you smiling again.

Need Help?

We’re here to answer all your questions and provide gentle, pain-free care.

📍 G1a, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park NSW
📞 (02) 9558 8988
📧 info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au

Let’s take care of your tooth before it becomes an emergency.

Don’t Be Afraid of the Paperwork — You Deserve Dental Care After a Work Injury

If you’ve had a dental injury at work, we know it can be overwhelming—pain, uncertainty, and yes… paperwork. But here’s the truth: you absolutely deserve treatment, and with a little preparation, we can help you access that care through workers compensation.

At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we see many patients who’ve been hurt on the job and are unsure where to begin. We want you to know: don’t let the paperwork stop you—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If You’ve Been Injured at Work…

Whether you’ve chipped a tooth in a fall, developed jaw pain (TMJ), or lost a tooth due to trauma—these issues are serious, and you don’t have to suffer through them. Work-related dental injuries are legitimately covered under workers compensation, and treatment can be fully funded if your claim is approved.

What You Need to Make It Happen

Yes, there are a few documents needed—but it’s nothing you can’t handle, and we’re here to help. To get started, please bring:

✅ Your personal details – name, date of birth, address
✅ Claim number – issued by the insurer once the claim is lodged
✅ Letter of approval – shows the insurer has agreed to fund dental treatment
✅ Insurer’s contact details – case manager’s name, phone, and email
✅ Referral letter from your GP – must be addressed to our clinic, confirming your dental issue is related to a work incident

These details allow us to treat you without delay and communicate directly with your insurer—so you don’t have to go back and forth.

Don’t Let Fear of Forms Delay Your Recovery

We understand paperwork can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re in pain. But we promise—once the claim is approved and everything’s in place, you’ll be so glad you did it. The sooner it’s done, the sooner you can get your teeth, bite, and comfort back.

We’ll also help by:

• Confirming what’s still needed

• Contacting your insurer for treatment plan approval

• Handling billing directly with the insurance provider

We've Got You

At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, our goal is in our name—to provide gentle, effective care without stress. If you’ve been injured at work and need help getting your dental claim sorted, just reach out.

📍 G1a, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park NSW
📞 (02) 9558 8988
📧 info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au

You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s get your treatment organised—paperwork and all.

Had a Dental Injury at Work? Here’s What to Do Before Seeing the Dentist

If you’ve had a dental injury on the job—maybe you tripped and chipped a tooth, or started having jaw pain after a work-related incident—you might be eligible to have your treatment covered through workers compensation.

At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we often help people like you who are dealing with dental injuries caused at work. Here’s what you need to know before coming in, so we can help make things smoother and get you the care you need—without extra stress.

First Things First—Let Your Employer Know

If the injury happened at work, make sure you report it straight away. Your employer will lodge a claim with their insurance provider. Once your claim is processed and approved, that’s when you can start getting your dental treatment covered under WorkCover.

What You’ll Need to Bring to Your Appointment

We know paperwork can be a bit much, but having the right documents ready will really help us help you. Before your visit, please gather:

✅ Your full name, date of birth, and home address
✅ Your claim number (this is issued by the insurer)
✅ A letter of approval from the insurance company saying they’re covering your dental treatment
✅ Your insurer’s contact details (including your case manager’s name, phone, and email)
✅ A referral letter from your GP, addressed to our clinic, explaining that the dental issue is related to your work injury

Bringing all this with you means we can get started with treatment straight away and avoid any delays with insurance approval.

What Kind of Dental Injuries Are Covered?

We’ve treated lots of different work-related dental problems under workers comp, such as:

• Cracked or broken teeth from falls or accidents

• Knocked-out teeth

• Jaw joint (TMJ) pain or clicking after an incident

• Facial pain or headaches caused by jaw trauma

• Teeth grinding or bite changes due to workplace stress or injury

Everyone’s situation is different, and we’ll tailor the treatment to what you need.

We’ll Take Care of the Paperwork Too

Once we’ve got all the info and approval, we’ll take over communication with the insurer—so you don’t have to chase them. Our goal is to make this process as easy and pain-free as possible for you.

Let’s Get You Back on Track

If you’ve had a dental injury through work and want caring, professional support, we’re here for you.

📍 G1a, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park NSW
📞 (02) 9558 8988
📧 info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au

Just give us a call or email, and we’ll walk you through everything. You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest.