Updated on: 24 September 2026
Finally! You've just sat down at your favourite restaurant and taken a bite of that special meal. The familiar flavours hit your taste buds as you buckle in for an exceptional culinary experience, but wait! Your back right molar starts delivering a painful punch with every bite as you forget about the much-anticipated textures and flavours, and the meal suddenly loses its lustre. What's happening here? Pain and sensitivity in the teeth can get in the way of a nice meal and start dictating which teeth we use and cause problems throughout the day. Painful or sensitive teeth may indicate the need for a root canal treatment.
Whilst some may associate a negative stigma with this procedure, visiting your dentist in Dunedin, Otago for a root canal procedure can save your tooth and allow you to experience those exceptional meals once again.
If you're still working out whether your symptoms point to an infected tooth, start with our guide to the signs you might need a root canal. This article explains what happens once a root canal has been recommended.
What Is a Root Canal?
If we take a look at the anatomy of a tooth, root canals refer to the inner parts of the tooth (similar to the roots of a plant) that hold nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels essential to the tooth's health and survival. The root canals house and protects these crucial parts of the inner tooth anatomy, also referred to as the pulp. A patient may require a root canal treatment (or endodontic treatment) when the pulp starts getting infected, causing root canal pain and other symptoms detrimental to oral health. Without cleaning and removing infection, patients can suffer pain, sensitivity, or tooth loss.
Why Save the Tooth Instead of Removing It?
Keeping your natural tooth is usually the best long-term option for your bite and your oral health. A treated and restored tooth lets you:
- Chew and speak normally, without favouring one side of your mouth
- Keep the natural spacing of your teeth, so neighbouring teeth don't drift
- Clear the infection from your mouth without losing the tooth
- Avoid the extra time and cost of replacing a missing tooth with an implant or bridge
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?
At Bell Hill Dental, we can assess patients' teeth and symptoms to determine if a root canal treatment is necessary. Our professional staff always offers transparent advice and details on our procedures to patients and leaves them with the final decision. When we perform a root canal treatment, patients can usually expect the following:
- Numbing: We numb the tooth and surrounding area with local anaesthetic so you're comfortable throughout.
- Isolation: A small protective sheet keeps the tooth clean and dry while we work.
- Access: We make a small opening in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber.
- Cleaning: We remove the infected pulp, then clean and shape each canal. This step is what saves the tooth.
- Sealing: We fill the canals with gutta-percha, a durable, biocompatible material, and seal the opening.
- Restoring: We place a filling or a dental crown to protect the tooth and restore its strength and appearance.
Although you may hear of them as a separate procedure, dental crowns play an essential role in root canal treatments, dental implants, and dental bridges. For more information on dental crowns and how they can benefit your smile, don't hesitate to reach out to our dental clinic on (03) 477 8387.
Do You Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
Not always, but back teeth usually do. Molars and premolars take most of the force when you chew. A tooth that has had root canal treatment can become more brittle over time, and a crown helps protect it from cracking. Front teeth with minimal damage can often be restored with a filling instead. Your dentist will recommend the right option for your tooth.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
Most root canal appointments take between 30 and 90 minutes. Some treatments are completed in one visit. Others need a second appointment, particularly for molars with several canals, severe infections, or teeth that need a crown fitted afterward.
What Is Recovery Like After a Root Canal?
Most people return to work or normal activities the same day. It's common for the tooth to feel tender for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief, taken as directed, usually helps. Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it has been fully restored. Contact us if you notice swelling, severe pain or a change in your bite.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost in NZ?
Root canal costs vary depending on your situation. The main factors are:
- Which tooth is being treated, since molars have more canals than front teeth
- How many appointments are needed
- Whether you need a crown afterward
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to book a consultation. We'll give you a clear treatment plan and cost breakdown before any work begins. You can also view our financial information.
Root Canal FAQs
Does a root canal hurt?
The treatment is done under local anaesthetic, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. The toothache from an infection is usually far more uncomfortable than the procedure itself.
Is a root canal better than having the tooth pulled?
In most cases, yes. Saving your natural tooth protects your bite and avoids the need for a replacement tooth later.
How long does a root canal tooth last?
With a proper restoration and good oral care, a treated tooth can last many years, often a lifetime. Regular check-ups and cleans help keep it healthy.
Contact Our Dental Clinic in Dunedin
If you've noticed any unwanted symptoms, recently chipped or cracked a tooth or constantly experiencing pain, our team is here to assist! We invite new and existing patients to contact our dental clinic and schedule an appointment. Our staff creates a welcoming, comfortable environment for all of our patients, whether they need a routine teeth cleaning, root canal treatment, or any other procedure! Patients can contact us on (03) 477 8387 or book an appointment online.