not your ordinary dentist in adelaide logo for unley park dental clinic

At Unley Park Dental, we understand that the thought of a Root Canal can be a bit daunting.

Our philosophy is simple: we’re here to make this a comfortable and straightforward experience, not a chore.

Pain doesn’t wait, and neither should you. When you’re living with constant throbbing or sensitivity that shoots straight through your jaw, you already know you need root canal treatment—fast. But needing it doesn’t make it less scary.

We understand the worries about pain, side effects, and what the procedure involves. That’s why we focus on comfort from the moment you walk in. With gentle techniques, clear communication, and expert hands, we make your experience as smooth and reassuring as possible.

Book Here

What are Root Canals for?

The goal of a root canal is to remove the source of pain and infection while preserving your natural tooth. It treats the soft tissue inside the tooth called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks, it can lead to intense pain, sensitivity, and eventually, tooth loss if left untreated.

Root canals are commonly misunderstood. Despite their reputation, they’re not painful; in fact, they relieve pain. With our modern techniques and local anaesthesia, the process is usually no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling.

Most of our patients are surprised at how quick and straightforward it is, especially when compared to the ongoing discomfort of an untreated infection.

You know you need a root canal treatment when you have a persistent toothache, extreme sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums, or a tooth that’s discoloured or tender to touch. Sometimes, the symptoms can be mild but still indicate a serious underlying issue.

Without treatment, an infected tooth can lead to abscesses, bone loss, and even systemic health complications. That’s why a root canal is considered a tooth-saving and health-protecting procedure. Removing the infection and sealing the tooth helps you avoid extraction and eat comfortably again.

Book Here

The Process

Our process ensures every patient receives personalised attention, comprehensive treatment, and ongoing support. From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we prioritise your comfort, understanding, and long-term oral health success. This is what ‘care beyond the chair’ truly means.

Book Here
1

Step 1

Pre-Treatment Prep

We begin by making sure you’re completely comfortable, using local anesthesia to numb the area fully.
2

Step 2

Treatment Process

We make a small opening in your tooth so we can gently remove the inflamed or infected pulp inside. Next, we carefully clean, shape, and disinfect the root canals to eliminate any lingering bacteria. Once everything is spotless, we fill and seal the space with a safe, biocompatible material to protect against future infection. We typically place a filling or, if needed, a crown to restore the tooth’s strength and function. Throughout the whole process, we keep your comfort and peace of mind at the centre of our care.
3

Step 3

Aftercare & Post-treatment Evaluation

When we’re finished, you’re left with a pain-free, healthy tooth that lets you get back to living and smiling as usual.

Why Unley Park Dental for Root Canal Therapy?

Our care goes beyond the chair.

Because you want a dentist who combines experience, innovation, and care. We deliver thoughtful, individualised treatments with the latest technology—always guided by your comfort, needs, and goals.

We don’t follow the standard script. We plan deeper, communicate better, and aim higher. Our process is led by genuine relationships, not conveyor-belt care. From our technology to our tone, everything we do is about delivering a more refined experience.

Each member of our team brings a specialist skillset and a shared philosophy: excellence with empathy. Our dentists are not only highly qualified—they’re deeply committed to your comfort and results.

We believe that great results begin long before treatment starts. Our process starts with a detailed consultation and examination. Using state-of-the-art tools–high-resolution photography, digital x-rays, and 3D imaging–we map out every detail of your dental needs. This approach allows us to plan with precision and avoid unnecessary surprises. Whether you’re here for a simple clean or a full-mouth reconstruction, we’re always thinking three steps ahead.

Show More +

Frequently Asked Questions

Are root canals painful?

No, a root canal isn’t painful. With our modern anaesthetics and techniques, it feels similar to getting a regular filling. The procedure actually relieves pain caused by infection or inflammation. You may feel mild tenderness afterwards, but most patients are surprised by how comfortable the experience actually is.

How much does a root canal cost in Australia?

In Australia, a root canal typically costs between $800 and $2,500, depending on the tooth type and complexity. Front teeth are usually less expensive than molars. Additional costs may include X-rays and a dental crown, so it’s best to get a personalised quote during your consultation.

What is actually done in a root canal?

A root canal involves removing infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. The root canals are then cleaned, shaped, and disinfected. Afterwards, the space is filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. Most teeth are then protected with a crown to restore strength and function.

How long will a root canal last?

With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. Success depends on good oral hygiene and having the tooth properly restored, usually with a crown. Regular check-ups help monitor the tooth’s health, but many patients never need additional treatment after the root canal is complete.

What are the benefits of root canals?

One of the primary advantages is pain relief, as the procedure is specifically designed to eliminate the discomfort caused by inflamed or infected tooth pulp, allowing you to return to your daily life without the constant ache or sensitivity that often accompanies such issues.

By removing the source of infection, a root canal also prevents the spread of bacteria, protecting surrounding teeth, gums, and even bone from further damage or potential tooth loss.

Another key benefit is the preservation of your natural tooth. Rather than opting for extraction, root canal therapy allows you to keep your original tooth structure, which is essential for proper chewing, a natural smile, and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of alignment. This eliminates the need for more invasive and costly procedures like implants or bridges down the line.

What are some tips for recovery/post-treatment?

Do’s

  • Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
  • Rest and allow your body time to heal
  • Eat soft foods (e.g. soups, yoghurt, mashed vegetables) for the first couple of days
  • Brush and floss gently around the treated area
  • Attend all follow-up appointments for permanent restoration (usually a crown)
  • Contact your dentist if pain or swelling persists

Dont’s

  • Don’t chew on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored
  • Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could damage the temporary filling
  • Don’t smoke or drink alcohol during recovery
  • Don’t skip your follow-up visit or delay the final crown placement
  • Don’t ignore unusual or severe pain—get in touch if something feels wrong

Other Services We Offer

Cosmetic Dentistry

Your smile says a lot about you. We offer tailored cosmetic solutions designed to enhance, not overhaul, your appearance. Our services include professional teeth whitening to lift stains, porcelain veneers to perfect shape and colour, and full smile design services that harmonise aesthetics with facial balance. Every cosmetic treatment is planned with your goals and ensures that results look naturally beautiful and feel comfortable.

Learn More
cosmetic dentistry

Orthodontics

Orthodontic care is about more than just aesthetics. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, less prone to wear, and better for your bite and jaw health. We offer clear aligners for discreet correction and traditional braces for more complex cases. Our orthodontic plans are personalised for adults and teens, ensuring comfort, compliance, and great results.

Learn More
orthodontic dentistry

Dental Implants & Restorative Dentistry

Missing or damaged teeth can impact your confidence, speech, and chewing ability. Our restorative dentistry solutions—like dental implants, crowns, and bridges—help you regain full function and appearance. We use digital scans and premium materials to ensure every restoration fits perfectly and lasts. For those needing full-arch solutions, we offer All-on-4 treatments and high-quality dentures designed for natural appearance and stability.

Learn More
Dental Implants and Restorative Dental_colored

Specialist Dental Services

We offer in-house access to advanced dental procedures you’d typically need a referral for. Our specialist services include gum disease management (periodontics), oral surgery, and crown lengthening for aesthetic or functional improvement. We also provide sleep dentistry (sedation) for nervous patients and emergency appointments when urgency matters most.

Learn More
Specialist Dental Services

Book With Confidence

At Unley Park Dental, tooth extractions are never routine. We treat each case with the care it deserves. With highly detailed imaging, a gentle approach, and a focus on your comfort, we aim to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

Book Here
Book With Confidence