Welcome to the latest blog post from Channon Lawrence Dental, your trusted local Gympie dentists. If you've ever wondered what a root canal is, why you might need one, and what the recovery process looks like, this post is for you.
In this latest blog update from the team at Channon Lawrence Dental, we will explore everything you need to know about root canals, including:
What is a root canal?
Why you might need a root canal
How the root canal procedure works
What the root canal recovery process is like
Is root canal treatment covered by Medicare or private health?
How much does a root canal cost?
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. This treatment involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, then filling and sealing it.
The common causes that require a root canal include deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Root canals can often require more than one visit to the dentist.
Why Might You Need a Root Canal
If you need a root canal, it generally stems from an infection or inflammation of the tooth's nerve and pulp, caused by deep decay, large fillings, a crack in the tooth, trauma, or severe gum disease. Your teeth can become damaged or infected to the point of needing a root canal by:
General tooth decay
Daily wear and tear
Cracked teeth
Gum disease
Cracked fillings
Repeated dental work
What Symptoms Should I Look Out For
There are a lot of different symptoms that mean you may need a root canal, including severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discolouration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to give our Gympie dentists a call on (07) 5482 7688.
The Root Canal Procedure in Gympie
At Channon Lawrence Dental, we ensure that the root canal procedure is as pain-free and comfortable as possible. Here's what you can expect during a Gympie root canal treatment:
Step 1: Diagnosis and X-ray
Our Gympie dentists begin with an X-ray to determine the extent of damage and plan the best treatment.
Step 2: Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area and prevent any discomfort. At Channon Lawrence Dental, where necessary, we can offer dental sedation options to limit any anxiety about your root canal treatment.
Step 3: Pulpectomy
During the root canal treatment, an opening is made and the diseased tooth pulp is removed.
Step 4: Filling
The roots that have been opened are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed off with adhesive cement.
Step 5: Restoration
After the root canal, a crown or filling is placed to restore the tooth's functionality and appearance.
How Long Is The Recovery Process After a Root Canal?
Recovery from a root canal is usually straightforward, provided you follow good dental hygiene practices. Immediately post-procedure, you may experience some tenderness and slight discomfort, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers that our dental team will discuss with you. It's important to avoid chewing on the affected side until the pain subsides and the tooth is fully restored.
Generally it takes less than a week to recover from a root canal.
What Happens If I Don’t Get Root Canal Therapy?
We know it can be an unexpected cost that you might feel like you can ignore or delay. There are options like tooth extraction, but it’s ouR job to inform you of the best course of action for long term health. Obviously, we want you to have the best oral health possible – our dentists will talk you through the reason why you should consider having it. It’s best to be honest if you’re having reservations – we would rather know and work through it with you. We always try to find options that suit our patients.
Is Root Canal Covered by Medicare or Private Health in Australia?
In Australia, Medicare does not generally cover dental procedures like root canals. However, if you have private health insurance, part of the cost of your treatment may be covered under your dental benefits. We recommend checking with your provider to understand your coverage details. At Channon Lawrence Dental, we also offer payment plans to manage the cost of your treatment more comfortably.
How Much Does A Root Canal Cost?
Root canals generally cost between $2000 and $3400 depending on the particular treatment requirements. For an accurate quote, contact our team at Channon Lawrence Dental.
Contact Us Today
If you're experiencing any symptoms mentioned above, don't hesitate to contact us at Channon Lawrence Dental. Our dental team has decades of experience in dental treatments, helping keep Gympie smiles healthy. We make the root canal process as comfortable as possible, getting you back to normal in no time.
You can get in contact with us today by calling (07) 5482 7688, emailing admin@channonlawrencedental.com.au or contacting us through our website.
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