How do I know if I need a root canal?

Common signs include severe, persistent toothache, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, swelling in the gums, or a darkened tooth. A dental exam and x-ray are needed for a definitive diagnosis.

How long does a root canal take?

The procedure typically takes one or two appointments, each lasting about 60-90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the tooth.

What are the alternatives to a root canal?

The only alternative to a root canal is extracting the tooth. However, this can lead to other issues and often requires a more costly replacement like an implant or bridge.

How much does a root canal cost?

The cost depends on the specific tooth and its complexity. We provide a full, transparent quote before beginning any treatment.

Root Canals

Q: Is a root canal painful?

No. A root canal is a pain-relieving procedure. With modern techniques and effective local anaesthetic, the treatment is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling.

Q: What if I’m scared of the procedure?

We understand dental anxiety and specialize in gentle care. We'll explain every step and offer options to ensure you feel calm and in control.

Q: Can I go back to work after a root canal?

Yes, most patients can return to their normal activities, including work, either the same day or the following day.

Q: How successful are root canals?

Root canal treatments have a very high success rate and, with a proper restoration like a crown, the saved tooth can last for decades.

Q: Is it better to get an implant instead?

Saving your natural tooth is almost always the best option. A root canal preserves your tooth's root and your natural bite, making it the preferred choice if the tooth is salvageable.

Q: Will I need a crown afterwards?

In most cases, yes. A tooth is more brittle after a root canal, and a dental crown is essential to provide strength and protection against fracture.

Q: Do you treat anxious patients?

Yes, helping anxious patients is one of our specialties. Our team is known for its gentle, patient, and calming approach to dental care.

Helps you avoid losing a tooth

Don’t pull it. Save your tooth fast with expert root canal care that ends the pain for good.

You don't have to lose your tooth

Root canals have come a long way. If you've been told you need one, or you're in pain and suspect something's wrong, you're not alone. Many people fear the words "root canal," but in reality, it's a highly effective, comfortable way to save your natural tooth and avoid more invasive (and expensive) options.

At Passion Dental, we offer modern, gentle root canal treatments designed around your comfort. With the right care, a tooth that might otherwise be lost can be saved, restored, and protected for years to come.

What is a root canal?

The biggest myth in dentistry is that root canals cause pain. The reality is, the infection causes the pain, and the root canal is what ends it. Our entire process is built around gentle, comfortable relief.

- The Passion Dental Team

A root canal is a treatment that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth. When the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks, a root canal stops the spread of infection, relieves pain, and saves the tooth.

It involves cleaning the root canals, disinfecting the area, and sealing it. The final step usually involves restoring the tooth with a crown to protect it long-term.

Why root canals matter

Saving a natural tooth is always our first priority. An implant is a great Plan B, but a successful root canal preserves your own tooth's root, your bite, and the health of your jawbone.

- Dr. Mahum Sarfraz

Save your natural tooth: Avoid extraction, which can lead to shifting teeth, bite problems, or the need for costly replacements like implants.
Relieve pain: Contrary to the myth, root canals stop the pain—they don’t cause it.
Prevent infection spread: Stop bacteria from damaging nearby teeth or affecting your general health.

Types of root canal situations we handle

Deep cavities with persistent pain
Abscesses or infection at the root
Cracked or traumatised teeth
Failed previous root canals (retreatment)
Pain when chewing or with temperature sensitivity

What to expect at Passion Dental

1. Emergency relief or expert diagnosis

If you're in pain or unsure if you need a root canal, we’ll begin with a gentle exam and low-radiation x-rays to pinpoint the issue. If you’re mid-crisis (e.g. facial swelling, abscess), we prioritise urgent care.

2. Root canal procedure

The treatment is done under local anaesthetic and often feels like getting a longer filling. We carefully remove the damaged pulp, disinfect the canals, and seal the tooth. In some cases, the procedure may be done over two appointments depending on complexity.

3. Restoration & follow-up

Once healing begins, a crown or other restoration may be placed to protect the tooth. We’ll guide you on next steps and support you with post-care info and check-ins.

4. Pain management & comfort

You’ll receive clear aftercare instructions and tailored pain relief support. Most patients return to normal routines the same or next day.

Root canal myths (and the facts)

MYTH: Root canals are painful.
FACT: With modern techniques, most root canals are no more uncomfortable than a filling.

MYTH: It’s better to pull the tooth.
FACT: Keeping your natural tooth (when possible) is better for your bite, jaw, and long-term dental health.

MYTH: Root canals fail often.
FACT: With proper care and restoration, they have high success rates and can last decades.

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Explore More Services

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Diagnose discomfort & sensitivity

Pinpoint toothaches, sensitivity, or jaw pain quickly with clear diagnostics and expert advice for next steps.

A clinic like no other

Modern dentistry. Thoughtful care. All built around real people. Because your smile deserves better than average.

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FAQs

Is a root canal painful?

No. Modern root canals are done with local anaesthetic and are designed to relieve pain, not cause it.

How do I know if I need one?

Signs include sharp pain, lingering sensitivity, swelling, or darkening of a tooth. We can confirm it with an exam.

What if I’m scared of the procedure?

You're not alone. We specialise in helping anxious patients feel calm and supported.

Can I go back to work after a root canal?

Most patients return the same or next day. We’ll advise based on your case.

How long does it take?

Usually 1–2 appointments depending on the tooth and extent of damage.

What are the alternatives to root canal?

Extraction is the main alternative, but it often leads to bigger issues. We’ll walk you through all options.

How successful are root canals?

Very. With proper care and a good restoration, they can last decades.

Is it better to get an implant instead?

Not always. If your natural tooth can be saved, it's usually the best choice. Implants are great, but not always necessary.

Do kids ever need root canals?

Yes—we use child-friendly techniques and explain everything gently.

Will I need a crown afterwards?

In many cases, yes. A crown strengthens and protects the treated tooth.

Can you do root canals on molars?

Absolutely. We have experience handling even complex molar cases.

Is there a waitlist for treatment?

We keep emergency slots available every day. If you're in pain, we prioritise you.

Do you treat anxious patients?

Yes. We’re known for our gentle, calming approach—especially for those who’ve had bad experiences elsewhere.

What if the tooth is too damaged?

We’ll assess honestly and offer the best solution—whether that’s a root canal, restoration, or extraction.

Do I need a referral from a specialist?

No referral is needed. Just book in.

Can I get a second opinion?

Absolutely. We welcome it, and we’ll give you all the info you need to feel confident in your decision.

How much does it cost?

It depends on the tooth and complexity. We’ll give you a full quote before treatment.

Does Medicare cover this?

Not usually for adults, but children under CDBS may be eligible for related care.

Can I pay in instalments?

Yes—we offer several flexible options including interest-free plans.

Is the result permanent?

With proper care, many root canals last 10–20+ years.

Payment & Financing Info

At Passion Dental, we make essential treatments like root canals accessible:

Private Health Funds: Claim instantly with HICAPS if you have extras cover.
CBHS, HCF, nib: We’re preferred providers, which can reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
DentiCare Payment Plans: Interest-free plans available for eligible treatments.
SuperCare: You may be able to access your super for urgent or major dental needs like root canals.
Afterpay & Zip: Spread the cost over time without interest.

Need help navigating this? Just ask—we’ll guide you through the best options.