Root Canal Treatment
A severe and constant toothache or tooth sensitivity to temperature that doesn’t go away can be a sign that you have deep tooth decay that’s causing an infection. Unfortunately, a tooth infection won’t resolve on its own and root canal treatment is needed to eliminate the infection and preserve your tooth.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that can save a tooth from being extracted due to an infection or severe trauma. This treatment involves the removal of infected pulp tissue from inside the tooth, a process that typically requires 2 to 3 appointments to complete. Dental decay, trauma, tooth cracks, and severe gum disease are common causes of dental pulp infections.
The ultimate goal of root canal treatment is to clean and fill the inside of the tooth, and often, a crown is needed to protect the tooth after the procedure. Early diagnosis of a tooth requiring root canal therapy is key to achieving a successful outcome, which can provide both comfort and longevity.
So, if you have lingering, throbbing or aching pain in your tooth then you may need root canal treatment. It is important to see your dentist right away to determine the best course of action.
Does Root Canal Treatment Hurt?

Root canals have had a bad reputation in the past since they’re often associated with pain. However, it’s essential to understand that the pain you feel is caused by the tooth infection and not the procedure.
Root canal treatment actually relieves your pain. Our dentists will numb the area being treated, which provides immediate relief before they carefully remove the infected tissues from inside your tooth.
Today, our dentists use state-of-the-art technology that makes root canal procedures more efficient and comfortable for patients.
Contact Portside Dental
If you or a loved one is experiencing tooth pain, don’t hesitate to contact our team on (03) 9967 6131 for prompt emergency dental care.
What Are the Signs of a Tooth Infection?
Temperature Sensitivity
Tooth Discolouration
Painful Chewing
Constant Toothache
Facial Swelling
Frequently Asked Questions
For most patients, root canal recovery is manageable, and many people return to their usual routines within a day or two. However, some discomfort is expected as your mouth begins normal root canal healing.
As the local anaesthesia wears off, you may notice mild soreness or more pronounced aches around the treated tooth. This discomfort often comes from inflammation in the surrounding tissues rather than the tooth itself. Some patients also experience tooth sensitivity after a root canal, particularly when biting or chewing. These sensations usually improve gradually over several days.
Over-the-counter pain relief, as recommended by your dentist, can help manage discomfort. Avoid chewing on the treated side if possible, and stick to softer foods while the area settles. Keeping the area clean with gentle brushing and flossing also aims to support healing.
What’s Considered Normal?
Mild swelling, tenderness and sensitivity are common in the first few days. These symptoms typically lessen as healing progresses.
When to Call Your Dentist After a Root Canal
We invite you to contact your dentist if pain worsens instead of improving, swelling increases or you notice signs of infection such as fever or persistent discharge. These symptoms may indicate the need for further assessment.
Root Canal Recovery in Newport, VIC
Every patient heals differently, so following your dentist’s aftercare instructions and attending any recommended follow-up appointments aims to help support a smooth recovery.
We invite you to call (03) 9967 6131 if you have any questions or concerns, or if you'd like to book an appointment.
Our Team
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Dr Meredith Metin
Hi, I’m Dr Meredith Metin, and I’ve been looking after smiles for more than 25 years. Dentistry, to me, is about so much ...Read More -
Dr Amisha Hindocha
Dr. Amisha’s approach to dentistry is centered on ensuring her patients feel truly happy and confident with their smiles, which she believes to be their greatest accessory.Read More -
Dr Cindy Lay
Hi, I’m Dr Cindy Lay, and I take pride in providing gentle and comfortable dentistry for our community. As a true local, it’s important to me that my ...
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Dr Claudia Beltran
Dr. Claudia Beltran qualified as a Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Colombia in 2005.
Upon completing her master’s ...
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