Inside the core of every tooth is a pulp ( dental nerve). In some cases, the nerve can develop an infection from a big cavity or filling, a crack and/or trauma. At first, the nerve will respond by feeling sensitive to hot, cold or sweets. If no treatment is performed, the nerve can slowly die away. Commonly it does so with constant extreme pain or even with a dental abscess. When this happens you have two options, either you have the tooth removed and the infection with it or you get a root canal treatment on the tooth to remove the infection and therefore preserving the tooth in your mouth.
How is a root canal treatment done?
A root canal treatment is done most commonly in 2-3 visits. In some cases, it can be done in 1 visit and in other cases, it may require more than 3 visits. Each visit consists of your dentist cleaning out the roots where your nerve used to live. The ideal aim of root canal treatment is to ensure no bacteria is remaining in the canals. As a rough guide, each root canal treatment session may take around 1 hour. After a root canal treatment, the tooth in question is usually weaker and prone to fracture. In most cases, it will require a dental crown to help protect the tooth from fracturing.
How long do root canals last for?
When a root canal is done correctly and a good protective dental crown is placed over it, the tooth can last for over 10+ years with over 95% success rates.
How much does a root canal treatment cost?
Again this would depend on several factors. Some teeth have 1 nerve while others have anywhere between 2-4 nerves inside each individual tooth. So a root canal treatment can range anywhere from $900-$1500 depending on the number of nerves present. It is best to speak to your dentist and to get a quote from them before starting. Speak to our dentist at Bentleigh East to find out more.
We can help!
Though our dentists are located in Bentleigh East, we service all of Melbourne and Bayside including surrounding suburbs such as Moorabbin, Cheltenham, Bentleigh, Heatherton and many more. Contact us today to speak to our friendly team on 03 9570 7962 or read more here!
