Root Canal Treatment Auckland
Root canals can save infected teeth and prevent further damage.
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth. It involves cleaning out the damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), disinfecting the space, and sealing it to prevent further infection, helping save the tooth rather than remove it.
Why would I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to:
Deep decay
Cracked or broken teeth
Repeated dental work on the same tooth
Trauma or injury
Left untreated, this kind of infection can spread and lead to pain, swelling, or tooth loss.
How do I know if I need one?
Common signs include:
Persistent toothache
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
Swelling around the tooth or gums
A darkened tooth
Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
Your dentist will confirm the need for treatment with an exam and x-ray.
Is a root canal painful?
No. Thanks to modern techniques and anaesthetics, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most people feel relief afterwards because the source of pain has been removed.
What happens during the procedure?
Your dentist will:
Numb the area
Create a small opening in the tooth
Remove the infected pulp
Clean and disinfect the root canals
Fill and seal the space
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one to three visits, depending on the tooth and the severity of the infection. Each appointment typically lasts 60–90 minutes.
Comprehensive Dental Exam
Helpful info about your Root Canal appointment
Number of appointments: 2-3
Duration: 60-90mins
You will be seen by a: Dental Surgeon
Cost of treatment: $950-$1,750
Root Canal Treatment - Frequently asked questions
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You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after root canal treatment, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Most people can return to normal activities the next day, though you should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent restoration is placed.
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In most cases, yes - a crown is usually recommended after a root canal because the tooth becomes more brittle without its nerve and needs protection from breaking. Your dentist will discuss whether a crown or large filling is the best option based on how much tooth structure remains.
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Root canal treatment is usually the better option as it allows you to keep your natural tooth, which maintains proper chewing function and prevents neighboring teeth from shifting. Tooth removal requires replacement with an implant, bridge, or denture, which can be more complex and expensive.
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A tooth that has had root canal treatment can last a lifetime with proper care and a good restoration like a crown. Success rates are very high, with most root canal-treated teeth functioning normally for many years.
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Without treatment, the infection will likely worsen, causing severe pain, swelling, and potentially spreading to other parts of your face or body. Eventually, you may lose the tooth and require more complex treatment like tooth extraction and replacement.
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Yes, root canal treatment is a safe and well-established procedure with a high success rate. Modern techniques and anesthetics make the treatment comfortable, and serious complications are very rare when performed by a qualified dentist or endodontist.