Root Canal Treatment

Is a root canal painful?

Most people are surprised by how comfortable the procedure actually is. We use local anaesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area completely before we begin, so you should feel pressure at most — not pain. Any soreness afterwards is usually mild and settles within a few days with over-the-counter pain relief. Many patients tell us the treatment itself is far more comfortable than the toothache that brought them in.

Why do I need a root canal? Can’t the tooth just be removed?

A root canal allows us to save your natural tooth, which is almost always the better long-term option. Your natural tooth is stronger, functions better, and helps preserve the bone and surrounding teeth.

Extracting a tooth and replacing it with an implant or bridge typically costs more over time and involves additional procedures. We will always discuss your options honestly so you can make the right choice for your situation.

What exactly happens during a root canal?

(1) Numbing & Access

We numb the tooth and surrounding area with local anaesthesia, then create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the root canals inside.

(2) Cleaning & Shaping

We carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp, then clean and shape the canals using fine instruments. An antibacterial solution is used to disinfect the area thoroughly.

(3) Sealing & Restoration

The canals are sealed with a biocompatible filling material to prevent re-infection. The tooth is then restored — usually with a crown — to protect it and restore full function.

What are the signs I might need a root canal?

A persistent toothache, especially a throbbing pain that does not settle on its own.
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the temperature source is removed.
Pain when biting or chewing on a particular tooth.
A pimple-like swelling on the gum near the tooth, which may come and go.
A tooth that has darkened noticeably in colour.
Some infected teeth cause no pain at all — which is why regular X-rays at check-ups are so important.

How long does the procedure take, and how many visits will I need?

A single root canal appointment typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. Most straightforward cases can be completed in one visit, followed by a separate appointment to fit the permanent crown. More complex cases — particularly teeth with multiple canals or more severe infections — may be split across two visits. We will give you a clear timeline at your consultation.

What happens after the root canal — do I need a crown?

In most cases, yes. After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle because it no longer has a living pulp supplying it with nutrients. A crown covers and protects the tooth from cracking under everyday biting forces. A well-treated tooth with a good crown can last many years — often a lifetime — with proper care.

What if I leave it untreated?

A tooth infection will not resolve on its own. Left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding teeth, the jawbone, and in serious cases to other parts of the body. Early treatment is always simpler, less expensive, and safer. If you are worried about a tooth, please do not delay — contact us and we will get you seen as soon as possible.

What if my tooth doesn’t hurt — do I still need treatment?

Yes, in many cases. Some infected teeth cause little or no pain, particularly in the early stages. Your dentist may identify signs of infection on an X-ray before you experience any symptoms. Treating the problem early is always better — waiting until it becomes painful usually means the infection has progressed and treatment becomes more complex.

What is the cost of a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment at Kin Dental Centre may be indicated for a tooth with deep decay, a cracked tooth, or a tooth that has become infected.

The cost of root canal treatment varies depending on the tooth and the complexity of the case. It can range between $700 to $1500. Please speak with our front desk team for a full breakdown before treatment begins as root canal treatment can entail other stuff as well.

CHAS Subsidies can apply to root canal treatment. This is valid for blue CHAS, orange CHAS Medarka and Pioneer Generation card holders. Please speak to us to learn more about how to keep your root canal treatment affordable.