Root Canal Therapy in Perth Done with Precision and Care
Preserving Natural Teeth
Root Canal Treatment to Help Preserve Natural Teeth
You might notice tooth pain, lasting sensitivity, or swelling near your gums; these signs could mean something deeper is going on inside the tooth. Without timely care, it can become more complex to address. It’s completely natural to feel nervous about dental visits. However, seeking care early may provide more treatment options for your dentist to protect your teeth, manage discomfort and support your long-term oral health, and help keep your smile healthy.
Root canal therapy can help relieve discomfort and preserve your natural tooth by gently removing infected tissue and sealing the area to prevent further issues. At Beyond Smiles Dental in Perth, we prioritise personalised care to support your comfort and long-term oral health.
Who Needs It?
Common Signs Your Tooth May Need Root Canal Treatment
Some symptoms may point to a problem inside the tooth, but only your dentist can assess whether root canal therapy is a suitable option for you. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it’s advisable to schedule a professional evaluation.
1 Ongoing Tooth Pain
2 Lasting Sensitivity to Temperature
3 Swollen or Tender Gums
4 Severe Tooth Decay
Considering Restorative Dental Care? Experience Clarity and Care
We provide restorative dentistry aimed at supporting oral function and comfort. Treatment options are tailored to your needs, with the goal of helping you eat, speak, and smile with greater ease.
How This Treatment May Help
Restore Function, Comfort, and Your Natural Smile
Supports Pain Relief
If you have deep decay or inflammation, root canal therapy may help relieve pain by cleaning inside the tooth and sealing it, which can support comfortable everyday eating and speaking.
Helps Preserve Natural Teeth
Root canal therapy may help you retain your natural tooth, which can reduce the need for replacement options and support your ability to eat and speak more comfortably.
Restores Daily Comfort
After your dentist completes treatment, you may notice it’s easier to eat and speak without discomfort, making everyday activities feel more manageable while supporting your overall dental function and well-being.
Beyond Toothaches
Common Dental Problems Root Canal Therapy Can Help With
Infected Inner Tooth (Pulp)
If decay or injury causes an infection at the centre of your teeth, you might experience pain. Your dentist may recommend root canal therapy to clean the infected nerve, keeping the tooth functional and comfortable.
Dental Abscess
A pocket of infection near the tooth’s root—known as an abscess—may cause discomfort, swelling, or a foul taste. Depending on your condition, root canal therapy may help by removing infected tissue and supporting healing in the surrounding bone and gums.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
If you’ve cracked a tooth, bacteria may reach the inner part, contributing to discomfort. Your dentist may suggest root canal therapy to clean and seal the tooth as part of a plan to help you maintain its comfort and function.
Repeated Dental Work or Trauma
Teeth that have undergone multiple fillings or past trauma may develop internal irritation over time. Your dentist may recommend root canal therapy to help address internal inflammation and support the goal of keeping your tooth stable and functional.
Accessible Dental Care
Payment and Funding Options for Eligible Patients
We provide information about available payment and funding options that eligible patients may access to assist with managing treatment costs.
Disclaimer:
- Flexible payment options are available (e.g. Afterpay, Denticare, SuperCare).
- All payment plans and subsidies are subject to provider eligibility criteria, approval processes, and individual circumstances.
- Terms, conditions, fees, and lending criteria apply.
- Please speak with our team for full details before proceeding.
Afterpay
Afterpay enables eligible patients to spread dental treatment costs across four instalments. This option may assist with scheduled payments. Terms and conditions apply, and patients should confirm their eligibility before using this service.
Learn MoreDenticare
Denticare provides approved payment plan options for eligible patients. This option is subject to approval and eligibility criteria, and patients should confirm details directly with Denticare before starting treatment.
Learn More
Health Funds
We accept most major health funds for eligible dental services. Benefit amounts differ by fund and level of cover. Patients should confirm entitlements with their health fund before treatment, as benefits and gap payments vary between providers.
Learn MoreSuperCare
Through SuperCare, eligible patients may apply for early release of superannuation to fund approved dental treatments. This process is subject to ATO approval and strict eligibility criteria. Patients should confirm their eligibility before undergoing a procedure.
Learn MoreMPDSS
The Metropolitan Patient Dental Subsidy Scheme (MPDSS) may provide eligible patients with subsidised dental care. Availability depends on specific criteria set by government health services. Patients should confirm eligibility and conditions with their local health authority before booking.
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CDBS
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) provides eligible children aged 0–17 with access to certain dental services, funded by Medicare. Conditions and annual limits apply. Parents should confirm eligibility through Medicare before commencing treatment under the scheme.
Learn MoreDVA
Dental care may be available to eligible Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) health card holders. Treatment and benefits depend on card type and entitlements. Patients must confirm eligibility and requirements with DVA before accessing services.
Learn MoreHealth Funds
We Accept Most Health Funds for Transparent, Hassle-Free Dental Visits
Meet Your Dentists
Dedicated Dental Team Focused on Comfort and Care
Dr. Karthik is a fully qualified dentist with more than 23 years of clinical experience. Since completing his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2002, he has developed a strong interest in surgical procedures, dental implantology, and clear aligner systems. He holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Implantology from UCLA and has undergone comprehensive training in digital treatment planning and orthodontic aligner therapy.
His work is primarily focused on surgical extractions, implant placement, and managing complex treatment plans. He is dedicated to continuous learning and consistently integrates evidence-based techniques into his daily practice. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys playing backyard cricket and badminton with his sons, as well as practising mindfulness and maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Dr. Karthik earned a Master’s in Clinical Implantology from UCLA, focusing on implant systems, surgical techniques, and oral rehabilitation.
Dr. Behnoush is a dentist with more than 15 years of clinical experience. She gained her qualification through the Australian Dental Council in 2008 and has been practising in the country since 2009. She communicates clearly with patients and takes time to explain treatment options, especially during procedures that may be new or feel overwhelming.
She provides care across all aspects of general dentistry, with special interests in Invisalign, cosmetic treatments, and restorative work, such as crowns and bridges. She is dedicated to continuous learning and regularly attends continuing education programs. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys family time, active living, and being engaged in her local community.
Dr. Behnoush is a member of the Australian Dental Association and upholds national clinical standards and professional codes of conduct.
As a Senior Dentist, Dr. Julija focuses on preventive care and communication. She completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2006 and has more than 15 years of experience. Her calm, friendly approach helps patients feel at ease. She takes the time to explain treatment options and values building lasting relationships through clear and respectful communication.
She provides a wide range of dental services, including preventive, cosmetic, paediatric, extraction, and alignment treatments. She tailors treatment plans to each individual and stays current with evolving techniques. She enjoys cooking and cycling and regularly joins her family in the City to Surf walking challenge, combining fitness with community involvement.
Dr. Julija participates in professional development courses both domestically and internationally to stay current with the latest developments in dentistry.
Dr. Julija is a member of the Australian Dental Association - Western Australia (ADAWA), upholding ethical practice and professional standards in dentistry.
Dr. Siddharth is a dentist providing prosthodontic and implant care. He also provides restorative care, including dentures, crowns and bridges, veneers, and full mouth rehabilitation. He focuses on detail and long-term treatment planning, using a methodical approach shaped by patient goals and needs. His calm and clear communication helps patients navigate their treatment with clarity and understanding.
He enjoys creative pursuits, such as drawing, sketching, cooking, and dancing. These interests reflect his attention to shape, form, and balance—qualities that align with his approach to dental restoration and aesthetics. He works closely with patients on treatment options that are functional and designed with comfort and longevity in mind.
Dr. Siddharth completed his dental degree in India prior to registering locally, adding international clinical training to his restorative and implant work.
- Dr. Siddharth is a Fellow of the Indian Society of Oral Implantologists (ISOI), a professional body dedicated to implant training and clinical development.
- He also holds a Fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), an organisation that promotes global collaboration in implant dentistry.
Dr. Abha is a dentist with a Master’s degree in Periodontology and Implantology. She gained her dental qualification in India and registered with the Australian Dental Council. Her background in surgical and implant dentistry is combined with a calm, clear approach to patient care. She focuses on communication and helping patients understand treatment options that suit their individual needs.
She provides preventive, surgical, and implant treatment with careful attention to detail. She applies modern techniques guided by current research and encourages patients to remain committed to their oral health. Outside of dentistry, she spends her time with family, reading, listening to music, travelling, and exploring new places and cultures.
- Dr. Abha completed a Master’s degree in Periodontology and Implantology in India before gaining registration to practise dentistry locally.
- She frequently attends workshops and conferences domestically and internationally to maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in clinical techniques.
- Dr. Abha is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), an international organisation focused on education in implant dentistry.
Dr. Amy joined the team after completing her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Western Australia. She also holds a PhD in Materials Science from Curtin University, which provided valuable insight into dental materials and their clinical performance. She provides general dental care with a particular interest in implants, orthodontics, and clear aligner treatment, such as Invisalign.
She engages in continuing professional education to stay aligned with advancements in general and restorative dentistry techniques. She takes care to create a calm, comfortable environment, especially for patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. She is fluent in both Mandarin and Cantonese and communicates clearly with patients of all backgrounds.
Dr. Bashi offers preventive, restorative, paediatric, endodontic, prosthodontic, and minor oral surgery care in both private and community settings. Her background in clinical dentistry and public health shapes her patient-focused approach, particularly in education and prevention. She communicates clearly with patients of all ages and is committed to providing care that is personalised and responsive to each patient’s unique needs and treatment goals.
During her postgraduate studies, she completed an internship with a healthcare consulting team, contributing to public health projects in various regions. She continues to pursue professional development and enjoys combining clinical care with broader health perspectives. In her spare time, she enjoys basketball, scenic photography, video editing, travel, and exploring diverse cuisines.
Dr. Bashi completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka before gaining registration to practise in the country.
- Dr. Bashi is a member of the Australian Dental Association and follows its standards for continuing education and ethical patient care.
- She is also registered with the Sri Lanka Medical Council, reflecting her international clinical training and professional background.
Dr. Neha is a general dentist with postgraduate training in paediatric dentistry and over 13 years of clinical experience. She worked for nine years in Abu Dhabi, focusing on children's oral health. She recently gained her local registration through the Australian Dental Council and now provides care to patients of all ages, including restorative, preventive, and paediatric dentistry.
She has a particular interest in root canal therapy, minimally invasive treatment, and inhalation sedation for anxious patients. She values communication and clarity in every appointment and aims to create a calm environment tailored to each patient’s needs. Her interests outside of dentistry include travel, creative writing, and spending time with her family.
Dr. Neha holds a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Master’s in Paediatric Dentistry and has worked clinically in Abu Dhabi for over nine years.
Dr. Karthika completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India and worked in both public and private clinics before settling in Perth. She provides general and restorative care, with a strong interest in preventive dentistry and early intervention. She values collaboration and patient education, helping patients feel more comfortable in making informed choices about their dental care.
She continues to expand her clinical knowledge through continuous professional development. She works gently and thoughtfully with nervous patients, helping them feel more at ease during their appointments. Aside from her work in dentistry, she enjoys gardening, trying new recipes, tackling home DIY projects, and sharing meals with family and friends.
Dr. Karthika earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery overseas and later gained registration to practise as a general dentist locally.
WHAT PATIENTS ASK
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy
What does root canal therapy do?
We use root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, to preserve teeth severely damaged by decay, trauma, or infection. Instead of removing the tooth, dentists eliminate the infected pulp (which contains nerves and blood vessels), then clean, disinfect, and seal the root canals.
The Australian Dental Association confirms that dental work is an effective way to preserve natural teeth in the long term when they are properly restored and maintained.
Root canal therapy involves several key steps, all aimed at removing infection and preserving your natural tooth:
- Diagnosis & Imaging:
The dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays to check for infection or damage in the pulp and roots. - Local Anaesthesia:
A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area, helping you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. - Rubber Dam Isolation:
A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and prevent contamination during treatment. - Access Opening:
A small hole is made in the tooth to reach the infected pulp and root canals. - Cleaning and Shaping:
The dentist extracts the infected pulp and cleans the canals using special tools and disinfectants. - Filling (Obturation):
The cleaned canals are sealed with gutta-percha and cement to block bacteria from returning. - Restoration:
The tooth is restored with a filling or crown to protect it and restore full function.
Is a root canal better than a tooth extraction?
Deciding between a root canal and a tooth extraction depends on the condition of your tooth, your oral health goals, and your budget. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help guide your decision and support a discussion with your dentist.
| Factor | Root Canal Therapy | Tooth Extraction |
| Goal | Preserves your natural tooth and restores its function | Eliminates the entire tooth to eliminate infection or damage |
| Function | Maintains your natural chewing and jaw alignment | It can impact chewing and cause teeth to shift if the gap isn’t replaced |
| Aesthetics | Helps retain your natural tooth, supporting your smile | May require an implant, bridge, or denture to maintain appearance |
| Pain & Recovery | Generally mild discomfort; most recover quickly | May involve swelling, soreness, or longer healing, especially with surgical extractions |
| Treatment Time | Usually completed in 1–2 visits | Often completed in one visit, but additional appointments may be needed for replacements |
| Cost (Short-Term) | Higher upfront cost due to procedure complexity and crown | Lower initial cost, especially if no replacement is done |
| Cost (Long-Term) | It can be more economical over time if the tooth remains healthy | Replacing the tooth (e.g., implant or bridge) increases the overall cost |
| Jawbone Preservation | May help reduce bone loss by keeping the root in place | Can lead to bone loss in the jaw unless replaced with a dental implant |
| Risk Factors | Risk of failure if the canal isn’t thoroughly cleaned or sealed | Risk of teeth shifting, bone loss, or bite problems without timely replacement |
| Appropriate for | Teeth with manageable infection and adequate remaining structure | Severely decayed, fractured, or unrestorable teeth |
Does a root canal procedure hurt?
Dentists use local anaesthesia to numb the area, making the root canal procedure feel much like getting a filling. Most patients find the procedure manageable and might feel slight pressure, but it is not painful.
Some mild soreness or sensitivity after treatment is normal and often lasts around 2 to 5 days. Your dentist may recommend suitable pain management options to help you feel more comfortable during recovery. The dentist performs root canal treatment to alleviate pain resulting from infection or inflammation, which significantly improves the patient’s comfort as recovery progresses.
How much does root canal treatment cost?
The cost of root canal therapy varies depending on the number of canals for treatment and whether the tooth is restored with a filling or a crown. At Beyond Smiles Dental, the indicative fee for root canal therapy may be:
- 1 canal with filling: $980 – $1,975
- 2 canals with crown: $2,855 – $5,000
- 3 canals with filling: $1,820 – $4,640
- 4 canals with crown: $3,535 – $7,495
These estimates include both the root canal procedure (cleaning and disinfecting the canals) and the restoration (filling or crown). Final costs may vary depending on the tooth’s location, the extent of damage, and any additional procedures, such as sedation or post-placement care.
Do private health funds cover root canal treatment?
Yes, private health funds may help cover part of the cost of root canal treatment—if your plan includes major dental or endodontic services. The exact amount covered depends on your provider, level of cover, and any limits set by your policy.
Before your appointment, it’s a beneficial idea to:
- Confirm your cover:
Contact your health fund to see if root canal treatment is included in your dental benefits. - Request item numbers:
Ask your dentist for the relevant treatment codes so your fund can estimate your out-of-pocket cost. - Check for waiting periods:
Many health funds apply a 12-month waiting period for major dental if you’re new to the policy or recently upgraded. - Review your annual limits:
Most plans have yearly caps for dental treatments, which affect how much your health fund will contribute.
Checking these details in advance can help you avoid unexpected costs, stay informed about any out-of-pocket expenses, and increase your understanding of your treatment plan.
Is there a cheaper alternative to a root canal?
Yes, there may be more affordable root canal alternatives, depending on the condition of your tooth and your long-term dental health goals.
At Beyond Smiles Dental, we take the time to discuss clinically sound and cost-effective options so you can make an informed choice that benefits both your oral health and overall well-being.
Cost-Effective Options:
- Tooth Extraction
Tooth infection treatment often includes extraction as a lower upfront cost option, where the infected or damaged tooth is extracted. While this addresses the immediate issue, it may impact your bite or require future tooth replacement (like a bridge or implant), potentially increasing overall treatment needs. - Pulp Capping
A conservative treatment is used in the early stages of decay. It involves placing a protective material over the exposed pulp to promote healing and potentially avoid further intervention. It is only effective if the pulp is not infected. - Temporary Fillings or Monitoring
Tooth infection treatment may involve a temporary filling to relieve symptoms and monitor the tooth, though follow-up care is usually needed for lasting results.
How long does it take to heal from a root canal?
Recovery after a root canal varies, but many people find healing manageable. Many people notice improvements within a few days. Mild tenderness or sensitivity—especially while chewing—is common and generally settles within 48 to 72 hours.
Here’s what to expect during healing:
- In the first few days:
- It’s normal to encounter minor pain as the tissue around the tooth starts to heal.
- Any post-treatment soreness is generally manageable, and your dentist may prescribe over-the-counter pain relief.
- By one week:
- Mild discomfort is common after treatment, with comfort and function often improving noticeably within a week as the healing process progresses, though recovery times differ.
- Your dentist may advise you to avoid chewing on the affected tooth until it’s fully restored with a crown or filling.
- Within one or two weeks:
- The area generally feels stable and comfortable.
- The tooth is generally restored to function, which usually occurs after the final restoration is placed.
If the tooth had a severe infection or required additional procedures, healing may take longer. Always follow your dentist’s care instructions and contact the clinic if the pain worsens or continues beyond the expected timeframe.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
If the soft tissue inside your tooth—called the pulp—becomes inflamed or infected, your dentist may recommend root canal therapy. It can sometimes happen due to deep decay, a crack, injury, or repeated dental treatment.
Common signs of root canal infection that might indicate you need further assessment, and in some cases, a root canal therapy include the following:
- Persistent toothache:
Ongoing or throbbing pain, especially when biting or chewing, may indicate pulp inflammation or infection. - Lingering sensitivity:
Discomfort that persists after exposure to hot or cold temperatures may indicate nerve involvement. - Gum swelling or tenderness:
Inflammation or puffiness near a tooth can be a sign of underlying infection. - Tooth discolouration:
A grey or darkened tooth may reflect pulp damage, particularly following trauma or decay. - Pimple-like bump on the gums:
This may indicate a draining abscess, suggesting infection has spread beyond the tooth.
Not all infected teeth cause noticeable symptoms. Regular dental checkups and X-rays are essential for early detection. Your dentist will confirm the diagnosis through clinical examination and imaging.
