Services
Consultation
It all starts with a consult. This is an opportunity to meet your endodontist, so they can gain an understanding of your presenting concern. After a detailed history, a clinical examination is conducted so an appropriate management plan can be determined. There is often more than one approach and we will take time to explain all options, expected outcomes and costs will be discussed in an easy to understand way.
We encourage you to ask questions and will ensure you have a complete understanding prior to commencing any treatment.
Root Canal Therapy
Endodontic or root canal treatment is designed to save your natural tooth by thoroughly cleaning its interior and allowing the surrounding tissues to heal.
While under local anaesthesia, your specialist endodontist will create an opening in the biting surface of the tooth to access the infected pulp area. Using advanced instruments and magnification, the diseased pulp will be carefully removed. The root canal system is then cleaned, shaped, and prepared for sealing.
In most cases, root canal treatment is completed over two appointments. Between visits, a medicine is placed inside the root canals to control bacteria and ensure your tooth remains comfortable.
At the follow-up appointment, the tooth will be cleaned again, and the root canals will be filled and sealed to prevent future infection.
Once your root canal treatment is complete, a detailed report will be sent to your general dentist. Your dentist may then restore the tooth’s function and appearance by placing a final restoration on the top of the tooth.
Root Canal Retreatment
Root canal treatment typically has a very high success rate, especially when performed by a skilled and experienced endodontist. In a small percentage of cases, the tooth may not heal as expected or may remain uncomfortable or painful. This could be due to the tooth staying infected or becoming reinfected. In such cases, root canal retreatment is often necessary to save the tooth.
If your endodontist determines that your tooth is suitable for retreatment, this procedure can generally be performed with a high success rate. Retreatment typically requires two or three appointments, spaced over several weeks. At Apex, we will explain the process in detail during your consultation.
The retreatment process involves re-accessing the tooth through the biting surface and removing the original root filling. The root canals are then reshaped, medicated, and sealed inside the tooth. The medication is allowed to work for a period of time to disinfect the tooth’s canals and promote healing. Once this step is complete, the canals are refilled.
Following retreatment, your tooth may need a new filling or crown, either during or after the procedure. At the appropriate time, we will refer you back to your general dentist to restore your tooth’s function and appearance if required.
Sedation
If you have had a negative dental experience in the past, or feel anxious about your root canal treatment, sedation is available to help you feel more comfortable during the procedure. We offer treatment under “twilight” or “conscious” sedation, which is administered in collaboration with a qualified anaesthetist at Apex.
In most cases, the treatment can be completed in a single visit, and after a brief recovery period under the care of our registered nurse, you can return home the same day. This process does not require a trip to the hospital, allowing you to undergo your treatment in a safe, relaxed, and efficient manner.
Endodontic Microsurgery
Endodontic microsurgery is a precise, minimally invasive procedure aimed at removing bacteria from the tip of the tooth root. This procedure is necessary in a small number of cases where traditional root canal therapy has needed assistance in resolving the infection and allowing the body to heal.
The procedure is usually performed under sedation by your specialist endodontist, and a qualified visiting anaesthetist in our Apex Dental Specialists clinic. During the procedure, you will be “asleep,” and it is typically completed in a single visit. There is no need for a hospital stay.
The use of advanced operating microscopes and innovative microsurgical techniques has greatly enhanced the success rate and recovery time for this procedure. At Apex, we are highly trained and experienced in performing this service, utilizing the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
State of the art equipment - technology
Recent advancements in endodontic diagnosis and treatment have significantly improved the care and treatment outcomes. At Apex, we integrate these innovations into every phase of your treatment to ensure you receive the highest standard of care. We utilize:
- Endodontic microscopes for enhanced precision
- Endodontic rotary equipment for faster and more efficient procedures
- Ultrasonics for cleaning and shaping root canals
- Electronic apex locators for accurate measurements
- Digital radiography for clearer, faster imaging with lower exposure
- The latest endodontic microsurgical techniques for optimal results
These state-of-the-art tools and techniques allow us to deliver exceptional care, ensuring the best outcomes for your dental health. “