In the past, diseased teeth often had to be extracted. Today, they can often be saved through root canal therapy.
A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to repair teeth that are infected or badly decayed. Root canal therapy is necessary in these instances as if your teeth are left untreated, the infection could result in: The underlying bone tissue deteriorating, An abscess developing at the root of the tooth, Intense pain.
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the ‘pulp,’ containing nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes damaged or infected from decay, a crack, or trauma, it can cause pain and lead to an abscess (infection) if untreated. Root canal treatment removes the damaged pulp, cleans and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. At this point, the only alternative is extracting the tooth.
Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain your bite, chewing ability, and the alignment of surrounding teeth. Extracting a tooth can lead to shifting of neighbouring teeth and changes to your bite. Replacement options such as implants or bridges are more complex and costly than preserving the tooth with root canal treatment.
After root canal treatment, the treated tooth can become more brittle over time because the nerve and blood supply have been removed. This makes the tooth more prone to cracking or fracturing, especially back teeth (molars and premolars) that bear heavy chewing forces. A crown is a protective cap that fits over the tooth, providing strength, support, and a seal against bacteria. Prompt placement of a crown after root canal treatment is considered important for the long-term survival of the tooth.
While some root canals can be completed in one appointment, others require two or more visits. Common reasons include:
A temporary filling will be placed between visits to protect the tooth. It is important to attend all scheduled appointments so the treatment can be completed and properly sealed.
Some teeth have complicated root shapes, narrow or curved canals, previous treatment that needs to be redone, or other challenges that make treatment more difficult. In these situations, your dentist may recommend a referral to an endodontist, a dental specialist who has additional training in diagnosing and treating complex root canal cases.
Common reasons for specialist referral include:
Root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should be comfortable during the procedure. Most people can return to normal activities the same day. Some mild tenderness is normal for a few days afterwards.
Your dentist will discuss your individual situation and the best plan for restoring your tooth to full function.
WESTFIELD KNOX
Westfield Knox Shopping Centre (Walk through from Priceline Pharmacy or MedCentral Knox) 1060/425 Burwood Hwy Wantirna South VIC 3152
OPENING HOURS
Weekdays: 9am to 5pm
Open Saturday: 9am to 3pm
Principal Dentist
Speaks English and Vietnamese
Born and raised in Melbourne, Dr Raymond has spent several years working across both private and public practices in metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria. This diverse experience has strengthened his ability to connect with individuals and families from all walks of life, allowing him to deliver care that feels both personalised and accessible.
With a strong focus on family dentistry, Dr Raymond is experienced in both general and cosmetic dentistry, supporting patients at every stage of life. He is particularly proficient in wisdom teeth extractions, and has a special interest in clear aligner treatment and smile makeovers – including porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.
Known for his calm and reassuring manner, Dr Raymond is especially attentive to patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. He creates a relaxed, supportive environment designed to ease concerns and build trust over time. His goal is to make every appointment a positive experience and believes that visiting the dentist should feel comfortable, not confronting.
Outside the practice, he enjoys travelling, playing tennis, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Dr Emily was born in Melbourne and was raised in the local Knox area. She previously worked in private practices across Melbourne, and has worked for the public sector at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne.
She also gained a significant amount of experience working previously as the Hospital Dental Officer at Monash Medical Centre where she treated medically compromised, special needs and cancer patients.
She enjoys most aspects of dentistry including cosmetic dentistry and working with children. She has a special interest in the area of orthodontics (braces, clear aligners and early intervention) and can provide Myobrace treatment.
Dr Emily is currently undergoing a Post Graduate Diploma in Orthodontics to further her passion in this area.
She loves helping her patients with clear aligner treatment so that they can smile confidently.
In her spare time, Dr Emily enjoys going out for good food, spending time with family and going on nature walks with her dog Chino.
Dr Lilian Phu graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Biomedicine (Honours) and Doctor of Dental Surgery. Her passion for helping people achieve their dental and oral health goals is reflected by the quality, care and attention she gives to each patient she encounters. Additionally, her friendly and bubbly nature will be sure to bring a smile on anyone’s face.
Dr Lilian is also a preclinical supervisor for dental students at Melbourne University, sharing her knowledge with the future generation of dentists.
In order to deliver the best dental care to her patients, she regularly attends continuing education courses and is currently undertaking a two-year postgraduate course in orthodontics. Dr Lilian has a special interest in implants and clear aligner treatment, and can talk to you about how you can improve your smile.
Outside of dentistry, she enjoys digital drawing and spending time with her loved ones including a dog and three cats.
Speaks English
Edward is a kind and caring dentist who is dedicated to providing his patients with high quality dental care while prioritizing patient comfort to ensure that his patients have a positive experience.
Edward believes in taking a more patient-centered approach to dental care, whether it be by providing information to patients about prevention of dental disease, or by providing and explaining all available treatment options so that patients can be fully informed about their oral healthcare.
Outside of work, you’ll find Edward playing volleyball or in the kitchen as he enjoys cooking dishes from many different cuisines from around the world.
