Overview
What Is Root Canal
Therapy?
Inside every tooth lies a pulp chamber — a network of living nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria infiltrate this chamber through trauma, cracks, deep decay, or an old or deep filling, the result is infection, subsequent death, and often (but not always) pain.
Root canal therapy removes all infected and dead tissue from within the root canals, then cleans, shapes, and seals each canal with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then typically restored with a crown to protect what remains of the natural structure.
For illustration purposes only. Individual treatment planning and outcomes may vary.
The Right Choice
Root Canal
or Implant?
We believe where a tooth can be saved — it should be. Your natural tooth, with its intact root system and surrounding bone, will always outperform an artificial replacement in terms of feel and function.
Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement, however even implants have limitations and involve one to three surgical stages, dependent on the complexity of the case. The costs are slightly higher, and the consequences of a missing tooth inevitably involve deficiencies in bone and soft tissue — depending on the extent of the deficiency, this can minorly or majorly affect the final result.
While implants are an exceptional option for a tooth that cannot be saved, we prefer to save teeth whenever possible.
When Root Canal Is Right
The pulp is infected or necrotic, but the root structure and surrounding bone are healthy. The tooth can be restored with a crown. The patient wants to preserve their natural tooth.
When We Look Further
If the roots are fractured beyond repair, the bone support is compromised, or the tooth simply cannot be predictably restored, we will provide you with suitable tooth replacement options — and we'll always give you an honest assessment upfront.
Our Approach
Why Choose
Element Dental?
Skilled, Experienced Dentists
Our dentists perform root canal therapy with precision and care, drawing on years of clinical experience across single and multi-canal cases.
3D Technology & Precision Anatomy
We use 3D imaging to fully map your tooth's internal anatomy before treatment begins — understanding root curvature and canal complexity before we start.
Complete Local Anaesthesia
Root canal therapy at Element Dental is performed under local anaesthesia with flavoured topical gel applied first.
Antibiotic & Corticosteroid Medicament
Between appointments, we place a specially compounded antibiotic and corticosteroid medicament within the canals.
Oral Antibiotics & Pain Relief
Where indicated, we prescribe appropriate oral antibiotics and provide a clear plan for pain management during and after treatment.
Specialist Endodontist Partnership
For complex cases with unusual anatomy or significant curvature, we refer to our trusted specialist endodontist — ensuring every tooth gets the care it deserves.
The Process
Your Root Canal,
Step by Step.
Most root canal treatments are completed over two to three appointments. Here's what to expect at each stage.
Diagnosis & 3D Imaging
We begin with X-rays and 3D imaging to assess the extent of infection, the number of canals, and the anatomy of your roots — so there are no surprises during treatment.
Access & Deep Cleaning
Under local anaesthesia, a small opening is made in the tooth. Infected pulp tissue is removed using fine files, and each canal is thoroughly irrigated and shaped.
Medicament Placement
Between visits, a specialised antibiotic and corticosteroid dressing is sealed into the canals to reduce inflammation, clear remaining bacteria, and allow healing to begin.
Permanent Fill & Crown
Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with gutta-percha and sealed. The tooth is then usually restored with a crown to provide strength and long-term protection.
Investment
Transparent
Pricing.
The cost of root canal therapy is determined primarily by the number of canals in your tooth — a front tooth typically has one, while back molars can have three or four. Your dentist will confirm this before treatment begins.
Treatment is usually completed over two to three visits. Most cases will also require a crown following root canal therapy to protect the tooth long-term — this is quoted separately.
We provide a full written treatment plan and cost estimate before any work commences. We offer flexible payment plans and accept all major health funds.
View Payment Plans →Root Canal Therapy
From $1,100
Fee varies by number of canals.
Crown not included.
- 1 Canal$1,100
- 2 Canals$1,300
- 3 Canals$1,600
- 4 Canals$1,900
- Visits Required2–3 appointments
- Crown (recommended)Quoted separately
*Fees are indicative. Your personalised treatment plan will confirm exact costs prior to commencement. All major health funds accepted.
Ready to Rescue
Your Tooth?
Book a consultation at Element Dental and let us assess whether root canal therapy is right for you. We'll give you a clear picture — and an honest recommendation.
General & Cosmetic Dentistry & Implant Centre
– Erina Dentist