Gentle, Professional Care to Preserve Your Natural Tooth
Root Canal Treatment in Austral
What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment in Austral involves gently removing the affected tissue, disinfecting the area, and sealing the tooth to help prevent further issues. Visiting a dentist at Austral Smiles allows us to assess your symptoms during a thorough check-up and clean.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Persistent pain
Ongoing discomfort when chewing or applying pressure may suggest inflammation inside the tooth. This is especially true if the pain is sharp, throbbing, or persistent.
Lingering sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts more than a few seconds may indicate nerve irritation in the pulp chamber of the tooth.
Swelling or pus
Puffy gums, tenderness near the tooth, or the presence of a small pimple-like bump may suggest an infection that requires prompt attention.
Tooth discolouration
A tooth that appears grey or darker than the surrounding teeth may signal internal damage due to trauma or prolonged decay.
Protect Your Oral Health Long Term
Limits infection spread
Removing the inflamed tissue and sealing the space helps reduce bacteria. This can lower the chance of infection spreading to nearby areas in the mouth.
Preserves tooth structure
The outer part of the tooth remains intact after the procedure. This helps maintain normal function and supports the surrounding teeth and jaw.
Improves daily comfort
Many people feel more at ease after the procedure. Everyday actions like chewing, brushing, or speaking may become noticeably more comfortable.
Delays tooth loss
Keeping the natural tooth in place can delay the need for removal. It may reduce the likelihood of needing a replacement option.
Let’s Take Care of Your Smile
A Relaxing, No-Judgement Space
Dental visits can feel daunting — we get it. That’s why we've created a calm, welcoming environment where you can take a deep breath, feel heard, and leave the nerves behind.
Flexible Payment Options
We offer flexible payment options to help you access necessary dental care in a way that suits your circumstances.
Results That Go the Distance
We focus on high-quality care using proven techniques and durable materials to support long-term results, helping you smile with confidence.
Experienced Dentists
With over 30 years of combined experience, our dental team brings a steady hand and a caring heart to every treatment. Whether you're 6 or 60, you're in good hands with us.
Where Your Smile Feels Right at Home
Where Your Smile Feels Right at Home
At Austral Smiles, we combine professional dental care with genuine local hospitality, creating a positive, trusted experience for families in Austral and surrounding suburbs.
A Relaxing, No-Judgement Space
A Relaxing, No-Judgement Space
Results That Go the Distance
Results That Go the Distance
Flexible Payment Options
Flexible Payment Options
Experienced Dentists
Experienced Dentists 
Payment Options
We offer a range of flexible payment options to help make your dental care more manageable.
We Accept All Health Funds
We’re a CBHS Choice Network and a nib First Choice Network preferred provider, and we accept all major health funds. Our clinic processes eligible CDBS and government programme claims on the spot for your convenience.
Meet the Experienced Dentists at Austral Smiles
Get to know our friendly dental team, each dedicated to providing personalised care to improve your smile and oral health.
Dr. Sushmita Dahal
With over 18 years of experience, Dr. Sushmita Dahal has worked across private, public, and not-for-profit clinics in Australia. She combines technical precision with creative skills in dental artistry and smile rehabilitation.
Dr. Mamata Maharjan
Dr. Mamata Maharjan has over 15 years of clinical experience in Sydney’s public and private sectors. She focuses on preventive dentistry, root canal therapy, and clear aligner orthodontic treatments for adults and teens.
Dr. Bandana Shakya
A graduate of Progressive Orthodontic Seminars (USA, 2015), Dr. Bandana Shakya offers implants and orthodontic treatments. She provides Invisalign®, ClearCorrect®, Spark®, ClearPath® aligners and performs complex wisdom teeth extractions. She also completed implant training with Osstem.
Dr. Sarita Adhikari
Since graduating in 2004, Dr. Sarita Adhikari has delivered preventative, cosmetic, and restorative dental care. She promotes patient education, empowering individuals to take active roles in managing their long-term oral health.
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Your Root Canal Treatment Questions Answered
How much does a root canal treatment cost?
The cost of a root canal can vary based on the type of tooth, the number of canals, and the kind of restoration required.
If you’re in severe pain, we may recommend an emergency root canal in Austral to help manage symptoms quickly and begin care as needed.
Here are some of the key factors that can influence pricing:
- Tooth complexity: Simpler teeth, such as front teeth with one canal, are generally less involved. These cases may cost between $1,000 and $1,600. Back teeth are more difficult to access and often more time-intensive.
- Number of canals: More canals generally mean more detailed work. For example, a tooth with two canals and a crown may fall between $3,000 and $4,900. A molar with three canals and a filling may cost between $1,900 and $4,200.
- Type of restoration: Some teeth may need a crown afterwards to support long-term strength and function. A more complex tooth with four canals and a crown may cost $3,700 to $7,300.
- Additional procedures: Some patients may need X-rays or cleaning before the main procedure. These steps can add to the total fee.
Is it cheaper to pull a tooth or get a root canal treatment?
In most cases, removing a tooth is initially more affordable than having a root canal. However, the long-term cost of replacing a missing tooth often makes extraction the more expensive option over time.
Here’s why:
- Tooth removal is a one-time procedure. Extraction involves fewer steps and less time. As a result, the upfront fee is usually lower.
- A missing tooth can lead to further dental issues. When a gap is left in the mouth, nearby teeth can shift. The jawbone in that area may also shrink. This can affect your bite, facial structure, and oral health.
- In many cases, patients choose to replace a missing tooth later on to avoid future complications with chewing or alignment. Options like implants, bridges, or dentures may be considered. Each of these comes with additional costs.
Although removing a tooth might seem like the more affordable choice, it’s worth thinking about the bigger picture. Keeping the tooth where possible can help maintain your bite, comfort, and overall oral stability.
Is it worth paying for a root canal treatment?
For many people, preserving their natural teeth is a valuable long-term choice. While a root canal may cost more upfront than having a tooth removed, the benefits often outweigh the initial expense.
For patients exploring tooth infection treatment in Austral, this option is often considered when the goal is to keep the natural tooth where possible.
- You can keep your natural teeth. This helps maintain normal chewing function, speech clarity, and the appearance of your smile. It also means you won’t need a replacement tooth.
- It may prevent the need for more complex procedures later on. Removing a tooth can lead to higher overall costs later on. This is especially true if you decide to replace it with an implant, bridge, or denture.
- It supports long-term oral stability. A natural tooth helps prevent surrounding teeth from shifting. It also supports the jawbone, which is important for both comfort and facial structure.
Whether or not to proceed with a root canal depends on your specific dental needs. It also depends on the condition of the tooth and your overall oral health goals.
How do I know if I need a root canal treatment or filling?
It’s not always easy to tell whether a tooth can be managed with a simple filling or needs more involved care. While both options focus on preserving a damaged tooth, the right choice depends on how far the issue has progressed.
- A filling is usually suitable when only the outer surface is affected. This includes early decay, small chips, or minor surface wear, where the internal structure remains healthy.
- A root canal may be recommended if the nerve inside the tooth is exposed or inflamed. This can result from deeper decay, a crack, or infection. In such cases, cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth helps protect it from further complications.
- Symptoms can offer clues, but they’re not always reliable. Sensitivity to heat or cold, discomfort when biting, or swelling near the gum may suggest a more serious issue. Still, some teeth can be significantly affected without any obvious signs.
Are root canal treatments painful?
Modern root canal procedures are designed to relieve pain, not cause it. For most patients, the experience is similar to having a filling done, thanks to today’s advanced technology and effective numbing techniques.
Here’s what to expect:
- 1. The area is completely numbed before the procedure begins. A local anaesthetic is used to prevent discomfort. You may still feel slight pressure or movement, but there shouldn't be any pain during the process.
- 2. You might feel a little tender afterwards, but it's manageable. Some people experience mild soreness on the first day or two, similar to how a muscle might feel after a workout. This is temporary and usually settles with over-the-counter pain relief.
- 3. Pain before the procedure is often a sign that something deeper is going on. If a tooth is inflamed or infected, it can cause significant discomfort. In these cases, a root canal is intended to reduce discomfort by addressing the cause.
At Austral Smiles, we understand that dental visits can feel stressful, especially when discomfort is involved. Our experienced team prioritises gentle care, clear communication, and a calm, supportive environment throughout the entire process.
If you’re feeling anxious about the process, let us know. We’re always happy to talk things through and take extra steps to help you feel at ease.
What are the stages of root canal treatment?
A root canal is often completed in a series of careful steps designed to preserve your tooth and prevent further problems. The process may take place over one or more visits, depending on the condition of the tooth.
A root canal is a form of endodontic therapy in Austral. It involves cleaning the inner part of the tooth and sealing it to help protect the surrounding tissue.
Here’s an overview of what’s involved:
- Assessment and imaging: The dentist examines the tooth and takes scans to determine whether the inner nerve has been affected.
- Numbing the area: A local anaesthetic is applied to keep you comfortable. You’ll remain awake, but the tooth will be fully numb.
- Accessing the inner chamber: A small opening is made to reach the inner pulp. The inflamed tissue is gently removed.
- Shaping and disinfecting the canal: The canal is cleaned and shaped to prepare it for sealing. This step helps reduce bacteria inside the tooth.
- Sealing the space: A special material is placed inside the canal to prevent bacteria from entering again.
- Final restoration: A filling or crown is placed over the opening. Often, a crown is recommended later to support normal function.
At Austral Smiles, we explain every stage clearly so you know what to expect during your visit and follow-up.
How many visits does a root canal treatment take?
The number of appointments needed for a root canal can vary depending on the condition of the tooth and how complex the process is. Some people complete everything in a single visit. Others may need two or more appointments for a thorough and successful result.
Here’s a general overview:
- In straightforward cases, the procedure may be completed in one visit. If the tooth is stable and there are no signs of infection, cleaning, sealing, and restoration can often be completed in a single session.
- More involved cases may require multiple appointments. This applies when the tooth has more than one canal, signs of infection, or needs additional time to keep the area fully clean and ready for sealing.
- A separate appointment may be required to place a crown. Once the internal work is finished, many patients return for a follow-up visit to have a crown fitted. This helps protect the tooth and allows it to function properly.
At our Austral clinic, your care plan is based on your individual needs. After your initial examination, we’ll let you know what’s involved and how many visits you might need. Our goal is to provide care that’s precise, gentle, and clearly explained at every step.
How long does a root canal take to heal?
Most people recover quite well after a root canal. While healing times can vary, any discomfort is usually short-lived and manageable.
Here’s what usually happens:
- Mild soreness may occur during the first few days. You might notice some sensitivity or pressure around the tooth, especially when biting. This is temporary and often settles within 48 to 72 hours.
- It's a good idea to avoid chewing on the tooth for a short period. Until the final restoration or crown is placed, it’s a good idea to eat on the opposite side. This helps avoid unnecessary pressure while the area settles.
- The tooth should feel comfortable once everything is complete. After the final step is finished and the surrounding tissues have calmed down, the tooth should feel and function like any other.
Most people find the recovery smooth, especially with proper care and good oral hygiene. We’ll also walk you through your root canal treatment aftercare so you feel confident about what to expect after your appointment.
Can a tooth break after a root canal treatment?
Yes, a tooth can still fracture after a root canal, especially if it’s a back tooth or one that has lost a lot of its natural structure. While the internal space has been sealed and cleaned, the outer shell of the tooth may still be vulnerable to pressure or wear over time.
Here’s why this can happen:
- The tooth may already be weakened. Teeth needing root canal work often have deep decay or cracks that have thinned the outer walls. This can leave them more prone to breakage if not reinforced.
- There's no longer a living nerve inside the tooth. Without the nerve, the tooth no longer receives nutrients from the body. This doesn't cause pain or health issues but can make the tooth more brittle over time.
- A crown is often recommended to support the tooth and reduce the risk of future fractures. This is especially important for molars, which handle more pressure during chewing.
Do I need a crown after a root canal treatment?
In many cases, yes—a crown is recommended to protect the tooth after a root canal, especially if it’s a back tooth or one that has lost a significant amount of structure.
Here’s why a crown is often part of the process:
- 1. Back teeth are under more pressure. Molars and premolars do most of the chewing, which puts extra strain on the tooth. A crown helps shield it from cracks or breakage.
- 2. The tooth may be more fragile than before. Often, teeth necessitating this procedure have already experienced wear and damage. Once the internal space is sealed, the outer shell may still need added support.
- 3. A crown helps restore full function. It acts like a custom cap, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably while protecting the remaining tooth underneath.
Not every tooth will need this step. Front teeth, for example, often don’t face the same level of pressure and may be restored in other ways.
Our dental team in Austral will assess your case and let you know if a crown is recommended. We use strong, natural-looking materials and modern techniques to help achieve a result that blends well with your smile and holds up over time.
Can I eat after a root canal treatment?
Yes, you can eat after the procedure, but timing and food choice are important. We usually recommend waiting until the numbness from the local anaesthetic has completely worn off. This helps prevent accidental biting of your cheek, tongue, or lip.
Once the feeling returns, start with soft, non-sticky foods. Items like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, pasta, and soup are good options for the first day or two. Avoid crunchy, chewy, or hard foods, especially on the side of your mouth where the work was done.
If a temporary filling or dressing has been placed, it’s a good idea to avoid chewing on that side. Chewing on the opposite side gives the area a chance to settle and helps keep the material in place.
At Austral Smiles, we’ll provide clear guidance based on your specific situation, including what’s safe to eat and when. Our team is pleased to support your recovery and answer any questions along the way.
What are the don’ts after a root canal treatment?
- Don’t chew on the side that received care right away. Give the tooth some time to stabilise, especially if you have a temporary dressing. Stick to the opposite side when chewing.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. These can dislodge temporary fillings or put pressure on a weakened tooth.
- Don’t skip brushing or flossing—but be gentle. Maintain your oral hygiene, but take care around the area that was worked on. A soft brush and light pressure are the most gentle and effective approach.
- Don’t ignore unusual symptoms. Some mild tenderness is normal, but if you notice swelling, increasing pain, or a bad taste in your mouth, contact the clinic. These could be signs of infection or irritation.
- Avoid chewing ice or using your teeth as tools. Even with healthy teeth, this puts unnecessary strain on your mouth. It’s especially important after a procedure like this.
What are the alternatives to root canal treatment?
In some situations, when a root canal is not appropriate or preferred, the most common alternative is to remove the affected tooth. At Austral Smiles, tooth extractions are available when preserving the tooth is not suitable.
If you decide to replace the missing tooth after an extraction, we offer the following options:
- A dental implant can be placed to act as an artificial tooth root, providing a stable base for a natural-looking replacement tooth.
- A dental bridge can be used to fill the gap, supported by the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
- A removable denture may be recommended depending on the number of missing teeth in the arch.