Frequently Asked Questions

As an AHPRA registered Specialist Endodontist, Dr Deepak Chellappa and Dr Jimmy Chan have undertaken advanced university training (Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry – Endodontics) in diagnosing and treating orofacial and dental pain, endodontic diseases and dental trauma. Our practice utilises the latest technologies, such as microscopes and 3D cone-beam CT imaging, to perform hundreds of root canal treatment procedures and surgeries. 

When a tooth is severely damaged and potentially infected, the dental procedure – ‘root canal treatment’ – may be required to retain the tooth in the mouth rather than removing it. The procedure involves thoroughly cleaning the tooth, with the empty space within the tooth replaced with a filling. The procedure involves advanced techniques and materials providing a more comfortable experience than in years past. The treated tooth should last a long time, provided that you maintain good oral hygiene. 

Our highly trained team will always make sure your treatment is comfortable but if you feel apprehensive or anxious about endodontic treatment, please let us know when booking your appointment to discuss all available options to assist you. This may include oral or IV (day) sedation options.  

• After completion of root canal treatment, you may feel some discomfort or altered sensation for a few days/weeks. To alleviate the discomfort you can follow the Endodontists recommended over-the-counter pain medications. Avoid chewing on this tooth for 1-2 weeks, use cold compresses on any facial swellings intermittently and maintain a high level of oral hygiene. In some cases, the Specialist may prescribe an antibiotic and prescription strength pain reliever to help reduce any remaining infection.
  
• Be careful when chewing directly on the repaired tooth until the final filling has been placed on your tooth by your regular dentist, or it may crack. Also, keep in mind that the longer you wait to complete the final restoration the more likely bacteria will reinfect the treated canal requiring the therapy to be performed all over again. The endodontist will instruct you of the ideal time to get the filling placed onto the tooth.

• Root canal therapy, like every other treatment, is not free of unknowns and complications. There is a possibility that during the procedure a micro-instrument may break or the tooth fractures. In other cases, a good seal may not be achieved due to the shape of the root. Lastly, it is possible to miss a hidden root or an extra canal that is in need of treatment. Of course, these complications are the very rare exceptions and not the norm. Dr Deepak will go into more detail of all risks prior to treatment.
• In the event that root canal therapy is unsuccessful, Dr Deepak can discuss alternative options including re-treating the tooth, treating the tooth surgically or extracting the tooth and discussing an implant option.

• Local anaesthetic, dental dam (latex free) and radiographs (x-rays) are required to complete all treatments.
• Post-operative pain or swelling may occur after treatment. We will advise if you need analgesics or antibiotics.
• Complete treatment often requires multiple appointments over 3 months.
• Parental consent is required for patients under 18.
• Please allow time for parking and arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment.
• Please provide at least 48-hours notice prior to re-scheduling an appointment.

•  Decline treatment
  • This may lead to serious consequences and is not normally recommended.
• Remove the tooth
  • Your dentist removes your tooth. Post-extraction options are listed below:
    • Leave the space: Other teeth may move which may cause joint issues, change in appearance, increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
    • Removable partial denture: Replaces a missing tooth or teeth, but is not fixed into your mouth permanently.
    • Fixed bridge: A false tooth is suspended between the adjacent teeth to fill the space.
    • Implant: A titanium post is placed within the bone. After a period of time, the crown can be fixed in place. Suitability requires assessment from a qualified professional.
    • Orthodontics: In some cases, a space can be closed using braces.

Our practice uses a fixed-fee system for all endodontic treatments, ensuring you know the cost of your treatment upfront. Fees vary based on case complexity and tooth type, and our staff will provide a quote when you book your appointment. We offer HICAPS for convenient on-the-spot claims for most private health fund rebates. Payment plans are provided through a third-party service.