Local anaesthetic is used during root canal treatment to numb the treatment area and support patient comfort. Individual experiences vary, and a completely pain-free experience cannot be guaranteed.

Some temporary tenderness or discomfort can occur following treatment, particularly where inflammation or infection was present beforehand. Your endodontist will explain what to expect and provide post-operative advice relevant to your treatment.

For patients concerned about dental anxiety or discomfort, learn more about our comfort-focused approach to root canal treatment and sedation options.

The length and number of appointments required for root canal treatment vary according to the tooth, diagnosis, root canal anatomy, presence of infection and treatment required.

Some teeth may be treated in a single appointment, while others may require more than one visit. Your endodontist can provide a more specific indication of the expected treatment sequence after assessing the tooth.

Many patients are able to return to their usual activities following root canal treatment, although individual experiences vary.

Temporary numbness from local anaesthetic and some post-treatment tenderness may occur. Sedation, the complexity of treatment, symptoms before treatment and individual circumstances can also affect what activities are appropriate afterwards.

Follow the instructions provided by your treating practitioner, particularly if sedation has been used.

The cost of root canal treatment varies according to factors including the tooth involved, root canal anatomy, treatment complexity and whether previous treatment has been performed.

Your treatment requirements and estimated fees can be discussed following assessment. Restorative treatment provided by your general dentist, such as a filling or crown where required, is separate from the endodontic treatment fee.

For general information, see our root canal cost in Perth page.

A tooth that has previously undergone root canal treatment can sometimes develop new or persistent symptoms.

Possible causes include inflammation or infection around the root, leakage or deterioration of an existing restoration, new decay, cracks, complex canal anatomy or another dental condition.

Pain alone does not establish that a previous root canal treatment has failed. Assessment is required to determine the source of the symptoms and whether further treatment is appropriate.

Learn more about root canal retreatment and pain in a previously root canal-treated tooth.

Antibiotics alone do not treat the underlying cause of an infection within the root canal system.

Depending on the diagnosis, management may require treatment of the affected tooth, such as root canal treatment, retreatment, drainage or extraction. Antibiotics may be prescribed in selected circumstances where clinically indicated, including some infections associated with spreading or systemic signs.

Antibiotics should only be taken as prescribed for the individual patient. Your dentist or endodontist will determine whether they are appropriate for your circumstances.