Root Canal Treatment

Gold Coast root canal treatment

If there's any procedure in dentistry that suffers from a major PR problem, it's likely root canal treatments. Merely mention the word root canal, and most people instantly recall stories from relatives and friends who've undergone the procedure in the past with poor outcomes. However, with modern advancements in treatment equipment and improved anaesthetic practices, these days root canal treatment is a much gentler and kinder procedure that's often no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

At Waterways Dental we understand people are apprehensive to undertake root canal therapy, and so strive to make the entire treatment process as painless and pleasant as possible.

Do I need root canal treatment?

If you haven't previously undergone a professional in-house assessment with our Waterways Dental team, it's hard to determine if a root canal is the right option for you. However, if you have been experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call our clinic – you may have an infection and should seek an examination as soon as possible.

Intense tooth pain aggravated by chewing or pressure
Sensitivity brought on by hot or cold temperatures
Tooth darkening in one or more teeth
Swelling or tenderness in the gums, sometimes radiating to jaws or cheek

What does root canal treatment involve?

The term 'root canal' refers to the internal area of the tooth that houses the pulp and nerve. Occasionally this particular part of the tooth can become infected, and if this occurs not only does the tooth become painful but the infection can travel to other areas of the mouth or spread to other teeth. In these cases, root canal treatment may be the most effective treatment to save affected teeth. Root canal treatment is the last barrier before requiring tooth extraction.

If our dental team assesses that a root canal is the best course of action for you, once you are completely comfortable and your anaesthetic takes effect our dentists will create a small access point in your affected tooth. Working through this access point, any infected material will be drained out and the interior of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned to make sure no infection remains. The affected tooth will then be filled, and a dental cap or crown may be placed to protect the tooth. This part of the process is often necessary because the structure of the tooth becomes weakened after root canal treatment – if this happens, dental caps or crowns can strengthen the tooth to protect it from damage.

The treatment is broken up into stages – this makes the process less arduous for patients without compromising on results.

How effective are root canals?

Root canal treatment has over 93% success rate. Therefore, it's shown to be a highly successful treatment.

In the majority of cases, a root canal can last a lifetime.

Why choose Waterways Dental for root canal treatments?

If you're seeking treatment options for root canal treatment on the Gold Coast, our Mermaid Waters dental practice welcomes you. At Waterways Dental we have two clinicians who are extremely experienced in root canal, and are often able to assist patients requiring urgent attention – we strive to treat emergencies quickly.

Our practice has all the latest equipment on hand to perform root canals onsite, including a specialised rotary handpiece. More cost-effective than seeing an endodontist or specialist, our in-house team of oral health professionals offers root canal options tailored to deliver the best results for you.

Other Gold Coast clinics' root canal treatment plans might not include final stage options like dental caps or crowns, but our clinicians are proactive in recommending any procedures that will ensure the health and longevity of your teeth – after all, why undergo a root canal only to have the weakened tooth break later.

To discuss professional, gentle root canal treatment options, call our practice to arrange an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is root canal treatment necessary?

When the interior of your tooth is infected, it can cause a lot of pain and is likely to damage the nerve. If left untreated, the infection could spread to other teeth. Root canal therapy removes the infection and relieves the pain, restoring the tooth and allowing us to save it.

Will my root canal hurt?

The techniques used to perform root canal treatment have advanced considerably, making this routine procedure no more uncomfortable or inconvenient than a filling.

Many people who need root canal therapy are currently in pain, and a root canal will help to relieve your pain and save your tooth. After your procedure, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, but this will soon go away as you heal.

Meet Our Doctors:

Dr John Gorman BDS
Dentist

After spending several years working in a bustling dental clinic in Scotland, John has recently relocated to Australia. During his tenure in Scotland, he honed his skills and developed a keen interest in Invisalign, contributing significantly to restoring both smiles and confidence for patients.

John finds the most gratifying aspect of his job to be the preservation of teeth that might otherwise be lost. His proficiency in cosmetic dentistry, encompassing Invisalign, veneers, and tooth whitening, enables him to deliver top-notch care to every individual who steps into the clinic. Collaborating closely ...