Root canal treatment · Malanshof, Randburg
A deep toothache that won’t settle
A deep ache or sensitivity that lingers needs assessment. If the tissue inside the tooth is inflamed or infected, root canal treatment may help preserve it. We explain whether it is suitable and what alternatives you have.
Reception will confirm your appointment date and time.
Toothache right now? Call reception to check the next available appointment.
Call nowWhy it happens
Every tooth carries a soft living core — the nerve and its blood supply — sealed inside the hard shell. Deep decay, a crack or a hard knock can let bacteria reach that core, and once it’s inflamed or infected, it has nowhere to swell.
Throbbing, lingering sensitivity or night-time pain can have several causes. A dental examination and appropriate tests help identify the problem. Infection around a tooth can spread, so new swelling or worsening pain needs prompt advice.
How we fix it
Root canal treatment removes inflamed or infected tissue, cleans the canals and seals the tooth to help preserve it. Local anaesthetic helps keep you comfortable. Your dentist explains the likely outcome, risks and whether further restoration or referral is needed.
The number of treatment visits depends on the tooth and findings. A filling, crown or other restoration may be needed afterwards. We explain the whole plan and whether specialist care or another option is appropriate.
Keeping it fixed
A root-treated tooth can serve you for many years — this is how you protect it:
- Chew gently on that side until the final filling or crown is on — a tooth mid-treatment cracks more easily.
- If we recommend a crown, don’t shelve it: a root-treated back tooth without one has a habit of breaking.
- Brush and clean between teeth as usual. A root-treated tooth can still decay or develop pain or infection; contact a dentist if symptoms return.
- Keep your check-ups, so we can confirm the bone around the root has healed the way it should.
What it costs
Clear fees. A quote before treatment.
Root canal treatment is quoted tooth by tooth — you’ll have the full quote, including the crown if one’s needed, before we start.
Questions patients ask
Does a root canal hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used to help keep you comfortable. Tell the dentist if you feel pain during treatment so they can pause and check. Some tenderness afterwards is possible; follow your aftercare instructions and seek advice if pain persists or worsens.
How long does a root canal take?
The number of visits varies with the tooth and treatment required. Further appointments may be needed for the final restoration. Your dentist explains the proposed plan, likely timetable and any referral after assessment.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
The classic signs: a deep throb that arrives uninvited, a tooth that overreacts to heat, pain that wakes you at night, or a pimple-like spot on the gum. Only an examination and an X-ray can confirm it — book a visit and we’ll show you what we find.
Can I just take antibiotics instead of a root canal?
Antibiotics do not replace treatment of the source of a dental infection. A dentist assesses whether you need root canal treatment, drainage, extraction or other care, and whether antibiotics are indicated. Do not use leftover antibiotics instead of seeking advice.
Is it better to pull the tooth instead?
That depends on whether the tooth can be restored, its long-term outlook and your preferences. We explain the options, risks and costs, including any replacement needed after extraction, so you can make an informed choice.
How much does root canal treatment cost?
We quote before treatment. Root canal treatment is quoted tooth by tooth — front and back teeth differ — and your quote includes the crown if one’s needed, so you see the full picture before anything starts.
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