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Endodontic Treatment
Endodontic treatment, commonly known as root canal treatment, is an alternative to tooth extraction that aims to preserve the natural tooth.
What is Endodontic Treatment?
Endodontic treatment, commonly known as root canal treatment, is an alternative to tooth extraction that aims to preserve the natural tooth. The core of the tooth, often called the “heart,” houses nerves and blood vessels in an area known as the pulp. This pulp travels down through the roots in what’s called the root canal space.
When the pulp becomes injured or infected, it can cause significant pain and swelling in the gums. Root canal treatment involves cleaning and disinfecting the root canal space, followed by filling it with a specialised material to help reduce the risk of further infection.
Why Have You Been Referred to an Endodontist?
While all endodontists are qualified dentists, only about three percent of dentists specialise in endodontics. An endodontist completes an additional three years of focused training after dental school, allowing them to diagnose complex tooth pain, perform root canal treatments, and carry out other procedures aimed at saving teeth. Often, a diseased tooth that would otherwise be extracted can be saved with the expertise of an endodontist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding Endodontics
Endodontic treatment, also known as a 'root canal', is a procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth. The space is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection, helping to preserve the natural tooth.
Read more about endodontic treatment and how we provide endodontic care here.
In most cases, the alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction.
Read more about what endodontics is here.
Yes, Endodontists may be able to treat cracked, dislodged, or knocked-out teeth resulting from injury. Seeking prompt care improves the chances of saving the tooth.
Read more about our dental trauma and injuries service here.
Your Endodontic Treatment
At Camberwell Endodontics, we aim to provide a professional and communicative experience for patients. From your initial consultation through each step of treatment, our team will guide you with clear information, so you know what to expect.
The number of visits for endodontic treatment varies depending on a number of factors.
Patients travelling from regional areas or interstate should notify the clinic in advance so appointments can be scheduled efficiently. In some cases, treatment can be planned over fewer visits, depending on clinical factors. Contact us here.
As with any procedure, there are potential risks. These vary according to a number of factors such as the disease process and the type of tooth infected.
Success rates vary according to the complexity of case and tooth involved. Endodontic treatment generally has a high success rate but if the Endodontist believes your tooth may be compromised, this will be discussed with you at your consultation visit.
Our team is available to discuss any concerns and provide guidance throughout your treatment.
Learn about the specialised tools and techniques that we use in our endodontic treatments to support your treatment outcomes.
Most patients can safely undergo endodontic treatment. However, those with heart valve conditions or who have had heart valve surgery should inform their clinician before treatment. Patients with prosthetic joint replacements within the past two years may require additional precautions.
Please let us know of any specific medical concerns so we can plan your treatment appropriately.
Pain Management & Aftercare
Modern root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, and most patients find it comparable to having a filling. Treatment helps relieve pain caused by infection or inflammation.
Read more about what to expect after treatment and how to manage post-treatment pain.
It is normal to experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Avoid chewing hard food on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed.
Visit our managing dental pain page for more information on how to care for the area post treatment.
In many cases, yes. A crown helps to strengthen and improve the appearance of the treated tooth. Your dentist will advise on the best restoration.
While root canal treatment has a high success rate, in some cases, additional treatment such as retreatment or apical surgery may be needed.
If the tooth develops a cracked root, then extraction is often necessary.
Read more about these additional treatments in Our Services section.
Patient Comfort & Safety
Camberwell Endodontics understands that many patients feel nervous about dental procedures. Our team aims to create a calm, supportive environment and takes the time to explain each step of treatment. Some patients like to bring their own music and device with headphones as a distraction during treatment.
We encourage you to discuss any concerns with us beforehand to help ensure a comfortable experience.
A rubber dam is a protective sheet placed around the tooth during treatment to create a clean, isolated field. It helps prevent contamination, enhances infection control, and ensures that water and materials do not enter the mouth. Rubber dam is used for all endodontic treatment and is mandated by dental regulations.
Read more about our use of specialised tools and techniques to support your treatment outcomes.
Fees, Insurance & Booking
Many patients are referred by their general dentist, but while a referral is not necessary, the more information provided will help us triage.
Contact us here to discuss your situation and requirements.
Camberwell Endodontics is committed to transparency in fees and can provide itemised accounts for dental insurance purposes. On-site HICAPS rebate processing is available for added convenience. Our team is happy to answer any questions about treatment costs.
Contact us here.
Private health insurance plans may provide a rebate for endodontic treatment. It is best to check with your insurer to confirm your coverage.
You can schedule an appointment by calling Camberwell Endodontics. We have three locations.
Find out more and contact us here.
ENDODONTIST
Dr. Luke Moloney
With over 30 years of experience in endodontics, Dr. Luke Moloney has extensive experience in the field. As a Consultant Endodontist at the Royal Children’s Hospital and an Honorary Senior Fellow at the Melbourne Dental School, Dr. Moloney has contributed to clinical care and dental education.
ENDODONTIST
Dr. Artika Soma
Dr. Artika Soma is an experienced endodontist with a strong background in clinical care. She is committed to providing patient-focused treatment. Alongside her clinical work, she has been involved in teaching and mentoring future dental professionals, contributing to the development of endodontic education.
ENDODONTIST
Dr. Matthew Filei
With decades of experience in endodontics, Dr. Matthew Filei provides specialist care with a focus on patient well-being. His clinical approach focuses on careful treatment planning in a supportive environment. In addition he shares his expertise through ongoing involvement in dental education.
