About Root Canal Treatment at Recreate Smiles, Joondalup
Root canal treatment has a reputation that far exceeds the reality of the procedure. At Recreate Smiles in Joondalup, we perform root canal treatment with modern techniques and anaesthesia that make the experience far more comfortable than most patients anticipate. In fact, the treatment is specifically designed to relieve the pain caused by an infected or damaged tooth pulp, not to cause it.
Inside each tooth, beneath the outer enamel and inner dentine, lies a soft tissue called the pulp that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a crack, or repeated dental procedures, it can cause significant pain and, if untreated, lead to abscess formation, bone loss, and potentially the loss of the tooth itself.
Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp tissue, cleaning and shaping the canals within the tooth roots, and sealing them with a biocompatible filling material. The tooth is then restored with a crown or filling to protect it and restore its function. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last many years.
At Recreate Smiles, we use rotary endodontic instruments and digital X-ray imaging to ensure thorough and precise treatment. Our experienced team takes every measure to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, including the option of sedation for anxious patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need root canal treatment?
Common signs that root canal treatment may be needed include a persistent, severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, darkening of the tooth, swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums, and a persistent pimple-like spot on the gum near the affected tooth. However, in some cases there are no obvious symptoms, which is why regular check-ups are important.
Is root canal treatment painful?
With modern anaesthesia and technique, the procedure itself should not be painful. The area is thoroughly numbed before any work begins. Many patients are surprised to find that the experience is no more uncomfortable than having a routine filling. The relief of the infection often means patients feel significantly better once the procedure is complete.
How many appointments does root canal treatment require?
Most root canal treatments at our Joondalup clinic are completed in one to two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth’s root anatomy. We will give you a clear treatment plan before proceeding.
What happens after root canal treatment?
Following the procedure, the tooth will typically be restored with a dental crown to protect it from fracture, as treated teeth can become more brittle over time. You may experience some mild soreness for a few days after treatment, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Is it better to have a root canal or have the tooth extracted?
Where possible, preserving your natural tooth is always preferable. A tooth treated with root canal therapy can function well for many years and helps maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth and the integrity of the jawbone. Extraction, while sometimes necessary, creates a gap that needs to be addressed with an implant, bridge, or denture. We will always discuss both options with you before proceeding.
If you are experiencing tooth pain or have been told you may need root canal treatment
Contact Recreate Smiles Joondalup today to arrange an assessment with our caring team.
