Greenwood Plenty Dental Care, the most outstanding dental clinic, is the preferred destination for patients seeking endodontics and root canal treatment in Bundoora and nearby suburbs. With years of experience, our dentists can treat dental pulp diseases and help you maintain good oral health.

When your tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected, you may experience unbearable tooth pain and other uncomfortable symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, swelling near the tooth and fever. When you have these symptoms, we recommend you to get endodontic procedures done to treat dental infection and protect the stability of your tooth.

Why You Might Need a Root Canal

Infection can sometimes penetrate the outer layers of a tooth and reach the pulp, which is the innermost part where nerves and blood vessels reside. This often results from untreated decay, cracks in the tooth, or trauma. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, a root canal procedure may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent tooth loss. Without treatment, the infection can worsen, potentially leading to tooth abscesses, jawbone deterioration, and severe discomfort.

Signs you might need root canal treatment include:

Severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the heat or cold is removed
Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
Swelling, tenderness, or recurring pimples on the gums near the affected tooth

Our skilled dentist in Bundoora evaluates these symptoms thoroughly to determine the best course of action. Root canal therapy remains one of the most effective ways to address infected or damaged pulp and prevent further dental complications.

Understanding the Root Canal Procedure

A root canal is a straightforward yet intricate process that requires precision and expertise. During the procedure, our team follows several critical steps to remove the infection and seal the tooth. Each stage is performed with the highest standards of care to ensure successful treatment and a swift recovery.

Initial Consultation and Examination
During the first visit, our dentist assesses the extent of the infection or damage. This examination may involve X-rays to get a clear view of the tooth’s internal structure, helping to identify infection in the root or surrounding bone. Based on the results, a tailored treatment plan is developed.
Numbing the Area
To ensure a comfortable experience, local anaesthesia is applied to numb the area around the affected tooth. Patients can rest assured that with advanced anaesthetic techniques, they will feel minimal discomfort throughout the process.
Cleaning the Root Canal
Once the tooth is numb, the dentist carefully accesses the tooth’s pulp chamber by creating a small opening in the top of the tooth. The infected or damaged pulp is then removed from the root canals, a process that requires meticulous skill and precision. Specialised tools are used to clean out the canals thoroughly, ensuring all infection and debris are removed to prevent future complications.
Shaping and Disinfecting the Canals
After removing the pulp, the canals are carefully shaped and disinfected. This step is crucial for eliminating bacteria and preparing the root canals for filling. A biocompatible solution is used to ensure that the canals are sterile and free from infection, reducing the risk of recurring issues.
Filling and Sealing the Tooth
The clean canals are filled with a specialised material called gutta-percha, which helps to seal off the root canals and prevent bacteria from re-entering. This material is safe, durable, and designed to last. After filling, the small access hole is closed with a temporary filling or a crown, depending on the tooth’s structure and strength.
Restoring the Tooth
In many cases, a crown is recommended to restore the tooth’s strength and functionality fully. Crowns help protect the tooth from future damage, especially if the tooth is at risk of fracture. The team will discuss the best options to restore your tooth and maintain its appearance, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your natural smile.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Opting for a root canal offers significant benefits, especially when compared to alternative treatments such as extraction. Retaining your natural tooth not only preserves your bite and prevents shifting but also maintains the structure of your jawbone.

Key benefits include:

Pain Relief: The procedure alleviates the pain caused by infection and inflammation.
Preservation of Natural Tooth: By keeping your natural tooth, root canal treatment helps maintain the appearance and function of your smile.
Prevention of Complications: The treatment removes bacteria and infection, preventing the spread of infection and further complications in neighbouring teeth.

A successful root canal can last a lifetime with proper care, and the affected tooth will function as well as any other tooth.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Recovery from a root canal is usually quick and straightforward. After the procedure, it is common to experience mild sensitivity around the treated area. This is temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. Our dentist provides clear aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimise discomfort.

Once the temporary filling or crown is in place, patients should avoid chewing on that side of the mouth until the permanent restoration is completed. Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, are essential for maintaining the treated tooth’s longevity and preventing future issues.

Root Canal Care and Maintenance

Keeping your teeth healthy following a root canal involves simple but consistent oral hygiene practices. Here are some tips for maintaining your oral health after the procedure:

Regular Brushing and Flossing: Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to keep your mouth free from bacteria and prevent plaque build-up.
Routine Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with our dental clinic near you to monitor the health of your teeth and detect any early signs of issues.
Healthy Diet: Minimise sugary snacks and beverages that can lead to decay and compromise the longevity of the treated tooth.
Avoid Hard Foods: Particularly if the treated tooth has a temporary filling, avoid hard or sticky foods that may dislodge the filling or cause damage.

Why Choose Greenwood Plenty Dental Care for Your Root Canal Treatment

At Greenwood Plenty Dental Care, our team prioritises patient comfort and dental health. Each step of the root canal process is handled with care and expertise to deliver exceptional results. Our modern clinic in Bundoora is equipped with advanced technology and a skilled team, ensuring patients experience quality treatment in a welcoming and comfortable environment.

The goal of our root canal treatment is to save your natural tooth while alleviating discomfort, allowing you to retain your smile’s natural beauty. By choosing a dedicated team like ours, you can trust in the long-term success of your root canal procedure and experience a smooth recovery with expert guidance. We offer expert root canal treatment to Bundoora, Macleod, Reservoir, Watsonia, Kingsbury, Greensborough, Thomastown, and more across Melbourne northern suburbs.