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Root Canal Therapy: Saving Your Natural Tooth


What is root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy (RCT) is a treatment that saves a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. When the pulp inside a tooth (the living tissue and nerves) becomes infected or damaged, a root canal removes the infection, relieves pain, and seals the tooth to prevent further problems.

At Greenbank Family Dental, our approach is gentle, modern, and focused on keeping you comfortable every step of the way.

Different stages of root canal treatment — from infected tooth to cleaned canals, filling, and final crown restoration.
Different stages of root canal treatment — from infected tooth to cleaned canals, filling, and final crown restoration.

Why might you need a root canal?

  • Severe toothache or throbbing pain

  • Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers

  • Swelling or gum tenderness near a tooth

  • A cracked or broken tooth

  • Decay that has reached the pulp

Left untreated, infection can spread, leading to tooth loss or abscesses. A root canal allows us to save your natural tooth and restore its function.


What happens during root canal treatment?

  1. Diagnosis & X-rays – to confirm the extent of infection.

  2. Comfort first – local anaesthetic ensures you don’t feel pain.

  3. Access & cleaning – a small opening is made, and the infected pulp is removed.

  4. Shaping & disinfection – the canals are cleaned and shaped.

  5. Filling & sealing – canals are filled with a safe, biocompatible material.

  6. Restoration – often completed with a crown for long-term protection.


ADA item codes

  • 415: Complete chemo-mechanical preparation – one canal

  • 416: Complete chemo-mechanical preparation – each additional canal

  • 417: Root canal obturation – one canal

  • 419: Extirpation of pulp or debridement of root canal(s)

  • 455: Additional appointment for irrigation/dressing of root canal system


Myths vs reality

“A root canal is painful.”Modern root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than a routine filling. The real pain usually comes from the infection — treatment actually relieves it.

“It’s easier to just pull the tooth.”While extraction may seem quicker, it often leads to more complex treatment later (implants, bridges, dentures). Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better option.


Costs & rebates

  • Typical cost: $1,500–$2,200 depending on the number of canals and complexity

  • Rebates: Available under most private health funds for major dental

  • DVA: Accepted

  • Payment plans: Available to spread costs over time


FAQ

How long does a root canal take?

Usually 1–2 visits, depending on the tooth and complexity.

Do I need a crown afterwards?

In many cases, yes. Back teeth especially benefit from a crown to protect them from future fracture.

How successful are root canals?

Very successful — studies show **90% of treated teeth last for many years, especially when restored with a crown.

What if I don’t have treatment?

The infection can worsen, leading to severe pain, swelling, and possible tooth loss.


Our promise at GFD

We understand that root canals have a reputation, but with modern techniques, they are a safe, gentle, and effective way to save your tooth. At Greenbank Family Dental, we’ll talk you through every step, keep you comfortable, and make sure you leave feeling relieved, not anxious.


Booking your appointment

👉 Book an Appointment if you have tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity. Early treatment can save your tooth and prevent more complex problems.


Cross-links


**Studies consistently show that root canal therapy has a long-term success rate of 90% or higher when followed by proper restoration, such as a crown (Ng et al., International Endodontic Journal; American Association of Endodontists).

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