Root Canal Therapy in the Southern Highlands

At Southern Highlands Dental Implants and Cosmetic Centre, Dr Ahmed Elkhatib offers advanced, pain-managed root canal treatments in Southern Highlands designed to save your natural tooth and eliminate infection, without the discomfort often associated with the procedure.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a restorative dental treatment used to save a tooth when the innermost layer, called the pulp, becomes infected or damaged. The pulp contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels and lies within the root canal system.

The Three Main Layers of a Tooth:

• Enamel: The hard, protective outer surface
• Dentin: The core structure supporting the enamel
• Pulp: The inner chamber containing nerves and blood vessels

When the pulp becomes infected, it must be removed to prevent abscess formation and tooth loss.

Why Would I Need a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is typically required when:

• Decay (caries) reaches the pulp
• Trauma or injury damages the internal structure of the tooth
• Advanced gum disease allows bacteria to reach the pulp
• A previously treated tooth becomes re-infected

If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to intense pain, swelling, and eventual tooth extraction.

Common Symptoms of a Tooth Infection:

• Persistent or sharp tooth pain, especially when biting
• Swelling around the gums or face
• Discolouration or darkening of the tooth
• Presence of pimples or abscesses on the gum, often accompanied by a bad taste

If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to seek professional dental care promptly.

The Root Canal Procedure at Our Clinic

At Southern Highlands Dental Implants and Cosmetic Centre, your root canal will be performed with precision and care by Dr Elkhatib, using modern techniques for your comfort and safety.

Step 1: Examination & Diagnosis

A thorough assessment is carried out, including x-rays, to confirm the extent of the infection and determine if a root canal is the best course of treatment.

Step 2: Treatment Under Local Anaesthetic

The tooth is numbed and isolated. Dr Elkhatib accesses the pulp chamber, removes the infected tissue, and cleans the canals using fine instruments and an antibacterial solution.

Step 3: Sealing the Tooth

Medication may be placed inside the canals to eliminate residual bacteria. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling, depending on the severity of infection. A final restoration, such as a dental crown, may be recommended to protect the tooth long-term.