The root canal experience is not the "nightmare" that the ill-informed may imagine it to be.

Endodontic treatment eliminates the source of the pain of a toothache. With modern anaesthetics and injection techniques pain during treatment is eliminated.

Not only is modern endodontic treatment painless, it has a documented success rate of over 90%

The assumption a "root canal" treatment will be a horrible experience is outdated and should not prevent you from saving a tooth. Do not let fear guide you, make an informed decision. Please contact our office if you have any questions or concerns. We take great care and has many facilities to make your endodontic experience pleasant and uneventful.

Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) and answers about endodontics.

↓ Are root canals painful?

No, endodontic treatment eliminates the source of pain thereby providing relief
Modern local anaesthetic techniques provide adequate 'freezing' for even the most sensitive teeth
Adhering to the pain medication guidelines will promote healing and minimise any after-appointment pain
Oral sedation is available to alleviate stress and anxiety
Treatment at the Richmond Endodontic Centre is done in a pain-free environment

↓ You have a toothache but you get anxious when it comes to dental appointments?

We are here to help, inform us of any concerns or questions you may have
Our office prides itself on creating a stress-free environment for you
Oral sedation is available at the Richmond Endodontic Centre
Putting off treatment of a toothache or infected tooth will only makes matters worse
If you had a bad dental experience in the past, we will ensure it is not repeated

↓ You have a little sensitivity, should you do anything?

A slight sensitivity to hot, cold, or bite may be an early sign of a significant problem; ask your dentist to evaluate the sensitivity at your next check-up

Make an appointment to see your dentist if you have pain to biting

See your dentist as soon as possible if you have pain upon release from biting

If unsure, you may request an evaluation by an endodontist at the Richmond Endodontic Centre

↓ You recently had a filling/crown and now you have some sensitivity.

See your dentist quickly if the bite feels high

Some sensitivity for a few days is normal

If it does not resolve in a few days, see your dentist

Severe pain requires immediate attention

If the pain persists for two weeks or is quite severe request an evaluation at the Richmond Endodontic Centre

↓ You have seen your dentist several times and there has been no change in the pain. What can you do?

Ask your dentist if a second opinion from an endodontist at the Richmond Endodontic Centre is worth considering
Our endodontists have special training and expertise in diagnosing and treating difficult to diagnose sensitivities and oral-facial pain
Several medical conditions can cause pain that mimics a toothache; a second opinion from an oral medicine specialist or oral surgeon is occasionally warranted

↓ Your tooth aches more at night, why?

When you lie down, more blood goes to your head and pressure builds-up
Use an extra pillow to keep your head above your heart
If you are able to, take an anti-inflammatory tablet such as ibuprofen at least one hour before going to bed; see the pain medication hand-out for more details
You may be grinding or clenching your teeth, consult your dentist

↓ You have your x-ray from your dentist. Why do you need another one?

Our office is committed to minimising your exposure to radiation; only x-rays necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment are considered
The following medical-legal reasons are why a new x-ray is necessary
X-rays from other offices cannot be used in lieu of a new diagnostic x-ray
On occasion, a person has been given either an out-dated or incorrect x-ray
A new diagnostic x-ray is the only way to avoid such mishaps
A new x-ray from an alternative angle will reveal further diagnostic information

↓ Is your root taken out when you have a root canal?

No, the canal space in the centre of the root is cleaned
The hard outer shell of the root remains in place
Without a root anchoring a tooth to the jaw bone a tooth will become loose and fall out

↓ Do you need to floss and brush a root canal treated tooth?

Yes, it needs regular hygiene and maintenance just like all other natural teeth
If you ignore your teeth, they will go away

↓ What happens after the root canal treatment is completed?

The Richmond Endodontic Centre will send a report to your dentist summarising the treatment and our recommendations
Return to your dentist within one to two weeks for a follow-up filling
It is normal to experience a little tenderness for two to three days
Please refer to the pain medication hand-out to learn how to minimise any discomfort