Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is alternative treatment option when the nerve or pulp of the tooth is compromised either by infection, trauma or decay.
Root canal is a type of endodontic therapy that is often recommended if the tooth pulp and nerves are compromised by infection, trauma, or decay.
This treatment is done by removing the infected tissue from the tooth and placing a special material inside the tooth to seal the canals. This can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist. Root canal therapy has a reputation for being a painful procedure. However, the treatment can often be completed with minimal discomfort thanks to advanced techniques, tools, and anaesthesia here at GC Dental Solutions.
When is a root canal needed?
Root canal is needed if your tooth has become infected or damaged by decay, gum disease, repeated dental work, wear and tear, cracked fillings, or an injury to the tooth. If left untreated, the damaged tooth may cause severe pain and discomfort to the person. Without treatment, the blood vessels and nerves inside the tooth become severely infected, and that's when pus and abscesses from.
There can be numerous symptoms that a tooth requires a root canal treatment, including:
- Cavities
- Severe sensitivity
- Soreness and pain
- Swollen and tender gums
- Severe toothache
- Darkening of the tooth
What is the root canal process?
Your dentist will do an x-ray to see the root canals' shape and determine whether there is an infection in the bone around your tooth. A local anaesthetic will be used to numb the tooth area before the dentist will drill a hole and remove the tooth's pulp.
The treatment can take a few appointments to clean and shape the hole inside the tooth before placing a sterile filling inside. Your dentist may also insert small support into the root canals to strengthen the tooth.
What is the alternative to a root canal?
Having your tooth extracted is the only alternative to a root canal. However, this can affect the surrounding teeth. It will cause them to move, leaving you with a bad bite. Although this option may cost less initially, you will likely need a single tooth implant or bridge, which can cost you more than root canal treatment.
How much does a root canal cost?
The cost of root canal therapy will depend on a few factors, including how many canals are needed to be filled. The fees for a single canal tooth are approximately $650. The fees for a 3 canal molar are approximately $1300.
Can I prevent a root canal treatment?
You can prevent a root canal treatment through proper gum and teeth care. It's essential to visit your dentist every six months for a regular check-up and cleans. If your dentist tells you there's tooth decay on a tooth that needs a filling, please book yourself in to get the filling done. The longer you leave the tooth decay, the higher the likelihood of the bacteria spreading and infecting the nerve, which leads to a root canal treatment.
Our dentists at GC Dental Solution work hard to provide you with a pleasant, comfortable experience each time you visit our office. We are located in Helensvale, and we offer a range of general dental treatments to suit your needs. For more information, please contact us at our Helensvale dental surgery on 07 5573 1368 or request a consultation below.
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Meet Dr. Tiago
With extensive experience, Dr. Tiago has a strong focus on complex root canal treatments, using cutting-edge technology and techniques to achieve excellent results. We are also pleased to offer root canal treatments under general anaesthesia for patients who suffer from severe dental anxiety, or need longer, more complex procedures that might be uncomfortable or challenging to undergo while awake.
Dr. Tiago Braga graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science in December 2003. In 2007, he completed a Specialization Course in Endodontics in São Paulo, Brazil, followed by advanced training in Endodontic Microscopy at the Pacific Endodontic Research Foundation (PERF) in San Diego, California. Subsequently, Dr. Braga was appointed as a Lecturer and Supervisor for the Endodontics and Endodontic Microsurgery Specialization Course at APCD Americana in Brazil.
In 2009, Dr. Braga completed a Postgraduate Program in Endodontic Microsurgery at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Throughout his 21-year career, he has dedicated 16 years to teaching and researching Endodontics and Endodontic Microsurgery, in addition to his private practice. Dr. Braga has authored three chapters in two prominent Endodontics textbooks and published numerous articles in leading journals, including the Journal of Endodontics (JOE), Journal of Dental Education (JDE), European Journal of Dental Education, Endodontic Practice US, Clinical Oral Investigations, among others.
From 2014 to 2023 he worked at the School of Medicine and Dentistry Griffith University. During this time, he was responsible for coordinating the Master of Clinical Dentistry in Endodontics program, as Clinical Delegate for the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry in Endodontics program, and as Clinical Delegate for the Endodontics undergraduate program. Dr. Braga's outstanding contributions to teaching were recognized with several commendation letters from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), and he was honoured by having his name included 9 times on the Griffith Learning and Teaching Awards website’s list of outstanding teachers.
Dr. Braga had the great honour of receiving the 2022 Honorary Member Award and being invited to join the prestigious Golden Key International Honour Society. Golden Key Honorary Membership recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in academia, leadership, and community service. Golden Key Honorary members come from all walks of life, including politics, business, science, the arts, sports, and community service. It was a privilege for Dr. Braga to be recognized among such distinguished individuals.
Dr. Braga is an active member of both the American Association of Endodontists and the Brazilian Society of Endodontists.
