Root Canal Treatment:
How and Why

Severe toothache?

You might be a good candidate for root canal treatment.

A toothache can be extremely painful. If left untreated, the infection can spread leading to facial swelling, unbearable pain and decay of the nerves within your tooth.

Here at Auckland Family Dental, our top team of dentists always endeavor to save your tooth whenever possible. With a root canal procedure, you are able to keep your natural teeth rather than having to extract them only to replace them with artificial teeth (implants, dentures & bridges).

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Inside every tooth you can find dental pulp (a soft tissue containing nerve endings) extending from the crown of the tooth down into the roots. Front teeth may have a singular root canal but premolars and molars may have 2 or 3 root canals.

A patient may require root canal treatment when bacteria enters the tooth reaching the dental pulp - this occurs through tooth decay, tooth fractures, deep cavities etc. This can cause the patient severe pain and discomfort.

A root canal is often misunderstood and feared. It is a treatment designed to save and repair a severely damaged or infected tooth, preventing the need for extraction.

A dental file is placed inside the canal for cleaning and shaping for root canal treatment

The Root Canal Procedure

Diagnosis

Before undergoing a root canal, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination. They will use X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and plan the treatment accordingly.

Anesthesia

To ensure your comfort, the dentist will administer local anesthesia. You will feel little to no pain during the procedure.

Cleaning and Shaping

The dentist will create a small access hole in the infected tooth and remove the infected pulp and damaged nerve. The interior of the tooth is then cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling.

Filling and Sealing

Once the tooth is cleaned and shaped, it is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent further infection.

Restoration

After the root canal, a crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and appearance.

Common Misconceptions

Myth: Root Canals are Painful

One of the most common misconceptions about root canals is that they are extremely painful.

However, with advancements in modern dentistry and anesthesia, the procedure is now virtually painless. The discomfort associated with root canals is often caused by the infection itself, which the procedure aims to eliminate.

Myth: Extraction is Better Than a Root Canal

Some individuals believe that extracting a tooth is a better option than a root canal. In reality, preserving your natural teeth is always the preferred choice. A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is essential for proper oral function and aesthetics.

Payment Plans

Explore your payment plan options below or reach out to our friendly team for more information. We also have received 5-star reviews on Google, which is a testament to our quality service.

Interest-Free Payment Plan Options:

  • Q Card or Q Mastercard: Ideal for treatments over $500, offering 18 months of interest-free payments. This allows you to receive the necessary treatment without an immediate financial burden.

  • Zip Interest-Free: If your treatment costs are under $800, Zip is an excellent choice. You can spread the cost over 4 fortnightly payments with no interest or additional fees.

  • WINZ Support: For those with limited income or receiving benefits, Work and Income (WINZ) can provide financial support for dental treatment. We offer quotes for you to take to WINZ, and once your treatment cost is covered, we can begin the treatment, typically within 2-3 days.

Don't let financial worries hold you back from maintaining your oral health.

Why Get a Root Canal Treatment?

When faced with a dental infection, opting for a root canal treatment is not just about immediate relief. It's a proactive step towards safeguarding your oral and overall health. Here's why you should consider a root canal:


Relief from Severe Pain

Dental infections can cause excruciating pain. A root canal provides swift and effective relief, allowing you to regain your comfort.

Preventing Abscess Formation

Left untreated, infections can lead to abscesses around your tooth roots, which can be extremely painful and pose serious health risks.

Preserving Bone Tissue

Untreated infections can deteriorate the underlying bone tissue, compromising the stability of your teeth and overall oral health.

Avoiding Further Complications

Dental infections can spread, causing harm to neighboring teeth, potentially leading to illness, fevers, facial swelling, and even blood poisoning.

Preserving Your Natural Tooth

Timely root canal treatment increases the likelihood of saving your natural tooth, preserving your smile and oral function.

Have Questions?

In summary, a root canal treatment not only relieves pain but also prevents potentially severe complications. It's a proactive choice to protect your well-being and maintain your natural smile.

Contact us to book an appointment.

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Our Auckland Clinics

Our Auckland Clinics

Milford

2 Dodson Avenue

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217 Great South Road

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177 Parnell Road

New Lynn

14 Delta Avenue

Patient Testimonials

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Amber H.

I don't usually place reviews unless I feel the need to.

I took my daughter here today for her first consultation for braces and oh my goodness. What an awesome team!

They made my daughter (who was naturally a little nervous) feel so relaxed (..and not to mention made my little one happy by making small talk with her)

Can't wait to start with my daughters braces treatment. Affordable treatment plans, good location, great parking and a very friendly team.

Keep up the good work! Highly recommended to all.

A 5-star rating.

Terry D.

The entire experience I had with the team from booking through to consult was fantastic...

Have you ever been to the dentist and feel you aren't being given all the information you need to make an informed decision about how to proceed moving forward? I have. BUT this is a dental practice you can trust.

He walked me through the options step by step, risk assessing each and really helped me decide on what was best for me.

I cannot rate these guys enough... Incredible dental practice. Thanks very much!

A 5-star rating.

Jessica K.

I've finally found my forever dentist.

The staff are incredible (Dentist, Admin & Support), the clinic is itself is so welcoming and the level of care is second to none.

I will be recommending your practice to all.

Thank you so much for an incredible service.

A 5-star rating.