ADVANCED CARE
Root Canal Treatment
There’s no need to be worried if your dentist or endodontist prescribes a root canal procedure to treat a damaged or diseased tooth. Millions of teeth are treated and saved this way each year, relieving pain and making teeth healthy again.
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Clinically reviewed by Dr Desmond Ng, BDSc (Hons) University of Queensland | Principal Dentist, Dentists @ Canning Vale Last reviewed: July 2026
Save Your Natural Tooth and Relieve Pain with Modern Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment has a reputation that's far worse than the reality. For most patients, the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed, and it's often the infection causing your pain, not the treatment that fixes it. At Dentists @ Canning Vale, our team uses modern techniques and local anaesthetic to make root canal treatment as comfortable as possible. The goal is straightforward: remove the infection, save your tooth and get you out of pain. Root canal treatment is a procedure used to treat infection or inflammation that has reached the pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth containing nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. Once the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it cannot heal on its own. Without treatment, the infection can spread, cause an abscess and ultimately lead to tooth loss. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue, cleans and seals the tooth, and restores it so it can continue to function normally. The procedure typically involves:- Numbing the area with local anaesthetic
- Removing the infected or damaged pulp tissue
- Cleaning and disinfecting the root canals
- Sealing the tooth with a biocompatible filling material
- Restoring the tooth with a crown or filling to protect it long-term
When Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
Root canal treatment is typically recommended when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or significantly damaged. Common causes include:- Deep tooth decay that has reached the pulp
- A cracked, fractured or broken tooth
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- A faulty crown or restoration allowing bacteria to enter
- Severe gum disease affecting the root
Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
Symptoms vary between patients, and in some cases a tooth requiring treatment may cause little or no discomfort. Common warning signs include:- Persistent or severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Swelling around the tooth or jaw
- Tenderness or darkening of the gums near the tooth
- A pimple-like swelling on the gum (a sign of abscess)
- Tooth discolouration
- Facial swelling associated with dental infection
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
This is the question most patients ask, and the honest answer is that the procedure is typically much more comfortable than people expect. The discomfort associated with root canal treatment usually comes from the infection itself, not the treatment. Once local anaesthetic is administered, the procedure is generally well-tolerated. Many patients are surprised at how straightforward the experience is compared to what they anticipated. Some tenderness in the area is normal in the days following treatment as the tissue heals. This is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and settles within a short period. If you're concerned about pain or anxiety during treatment, speak with our team. We can discuss sedation options that may help you feel more comfortable.The Root Canal Treatment Process at Dentists @ Canning Vale
Examination and Diagnosis
We begin with a thorough assessment, including digital X-rays, to evaluate the extent of infection and determine whether root canal treatment is the most appropriate option for your tooth.Local Anaesthetic
The treatment area is fully numbed before any work begins. Our team takes care to ensure you are comfortable and that the anaesthetic has taken full effect.Removing Infected Tissue
A small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected or damaged tissue is carefully removed from the root canals using fine instruments.Cleaning and Disinfecting
The canals are shaped, cleaned and disinfected to remove all traces of bacteria and debris.Sealing the Tooth
The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.Restoring the Tooth
In most cases, a dental crown is recommended after root canal treatment, particularly for back teeth, to restore strength, protect the tooth and allow normal function. Your dentist will discuss the most appropriate restoration for your situation.Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is infected, there are generally two options: treat it or remove it. While extraction may sometimes be necessary, preserving your natural tooth is usually the preferred approach where clinically possible.Root Canal Treatment
- Preserves the natural tooth structure
- Maintains normal chewing and biting function
- Avoids the cost and complexity of tooth replacement options
- Helps prevent bone loss that can occur after extraction
- With proper care, a treated tooth may remain functional for many years
Tooth Extraction
- Removes the infected tooth entirely
- Creates a gap that may require replacement with an implant, bridge or denture
- Can lead to bone loss in the jaw over time if not replaced
- May affect the alignment of surrounding teeth
Caring for Your Tooth After Treatment
After root canal treatment, it's important to:- Follow any aftercare instructions provided by our team
- Take prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored
- Have the recommended crown or filling placed as soon as possible
- Maintain good oral hygiene, brushing, flossing and regular check-ups
Frequently Asked Questions
How many appointments will I need?
This depends on the complexity of the case. Some root canal treatments can be completed in a single appointment; others may require two visits, particularly if the infection is severe or the tooth has multiple canals. Your dentist will give you a clear timeline after your examination.
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
In most cases, yes, particularly for molar teeth, which are under significant chewing force. A crown protects the treated tooth from cracking and helps restore its full function. Your dentist will advise on the most appropriate restoration for your specific tooth.
Can the tooth get infected again?
Root canal treatment has a high success rate, but no dental procedure can be guaranteed. In rare cases, reinfection can occur, this may require retreatment or other intervention. Keeping up with regular check-ups helps us detect any concerns early.
What if I don't have root canal treatment?
Dental infections do not resolve without treatment. Without intervention, the infection is likely to spread, cause an abscess, affect surrounding teeth and bone, and may eventually lead to tooth loss. Prompt treatment generally leads to better outcomes.
Is root canal treatment covered by health insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your health fund, policy level and individual circumstances. We recommend checking with your fund before your appointment. Our team can provide an itemised treatment plan to assist with any enquiries.
Book a Root Canal Consultation in Canning Vale
If you're experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity or signs of infection, don't wait, early treatment gives us the best chance of saving your tooth. Contact Dentists @ Canning Vale on 08 9256 2588 or book online to arrange a consultation with Dr Desmond Ng and our team. We'll assess your tooth, explain your options clearly and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.Important Information
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Treatment suitability, results and costs vary between patients.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, we will explain the benefits, risks and alternatives, and you are welcome to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
A consultation with one of our dentists is required to assess whether this treatment is appropriate for you. Book a consultation or call 08 9256 2588.
References & Further Reading
This page is based on current clinical literature and guidelines from recognised Australian and international dental and health authorities.
- Australian Dental Association. ada.org.au
- Dental Board of Australia (AHPRA). dentalboard.gov.au
- Australian Society of Implant Dentistry (ASID). asid.com.au
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) - Medical Devices. tga.gov.au
- Australian Society of Endodontology. ase.org.au
- Australian Periodontology - ADA Oral Health Topics. ada.org.au/Dental-Professionals/Publications/Oral-Health-Topics
Content reviewed by Dr Desmond Ng, BDSc (Hons) University of Queensland | Principal Dentist, Dentists at Canning Vale. Last reviewed July 2026.