Why has my dentist sent me to a registered specialist endodontist?

An endodontist completes a minimum of an additional 3 years study in an accredited endodontics post graduate program. This means that in addition to performing routine root canal and tooth pulp treatments, the endodontist has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of conditions.

These include diagnosing and relieving orofacial pain, treating traumatic injuries to teeth and retreating previously unsuccessful root canal fillings under an operating microscope.

This means there is a higher success rate and ultimately maintains your ability to chew and function while keeping your smile intact and of course, your tooth is not lost!

Dr. Loftus works as quickly as possible within the technical and biological limits. He has completed over 5000 root canal procedures, including his Dad’s so you are in good hands.

Will it hurt?

The procedure will be pain free due to advances in local analgesia and anaesthesia. If you are anxious please let us know as we have a range of sedation options. Some discomfort when the numbness wears off is normal and easily managed by over the counter painkillers. If you are in discomfort following treatment, please contact us, not your general dentist as we have treated you.

How much will it cost?

At Canberra City Endodontics we pride ourselves on being honest and transparent on pricing. Our consultations are FREE OF CHARGE where treatment is initiated on the same day. We also do not charge for x-rays. We charge for treatment based on time required to complete the procedure, so please don’t be late! We will give you the relevant codes so you can claim a rebate from your private health insurance.

How many visits are needed?

Dr. Loftus works without compromise and gives as much time as is needed to complete the job to his and your satisfaction. Generally (90% of cases) two visits are required – one to disinfect, prepare and place medication and a second visit to review and complete your treatment. Occasionally due to unusual anatomy / significant infection pathology, a further appointment may be required. This will depend on your general health and the condition of the tooth within the bone.

Will I need to see my general dentist afterwards?

Yes! You will need to schedule a crown appointment with your general dentist usually 2 months after the root canal procedure. Please book this in advance as most of our referring dentists have long waiting lists for this procedure. The further back a tooth is in the mouth, the more urgent the crown is to prevent a fracture of the tooth. Some front teeth especially lower incisors do not need a crown after root canal treatment.

Can I take a painkiller before my appointment?

Yes, if you and your referring dentist agree over which tooth is to be treated, you can take painkillers 40 mins before your appointment and this will help. If there is uncertainty over which tooth is causing symptoms, DO NOT take a painkiller as this will interfere with the special diagnostic tests.

How successful is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a proven and predictable procedure. Teeth that are extracted following root canal treatment usually have other problems such as gum disease, tooth decay or cracking of the root. A failure to get the tooth crowned after root canal treatment is the most common reason for extraction. Even within these constraints, only 1% of root canal treated teeth fail per year and if you see a specialist endodontist the success rates are even higher!