Root Canal Treatment Singapore
Protect your tooth & prevent reinfection with root canal treatment.
What is Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
Root canal treatment (endodontic treatment) is a dental procedure used to treat infection in the center of a tooth. The infected pulp tissue, which includes the nerve and blood vessels, is removed. The root canal system consists of the pulp chamber and the root canals. The pulp chamber is located in the crown of the tooth, and the root canals are located within the roots of the tooth. The roots contain blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, which supply blood and feeling to the entire tooth.
The dentist will remove the tooth’s inflamed or infected pulp (also called the dead pulp) and carefully clean and disinfect it. The space is then filled with an inert material (a material called gutta-percha). This treatment is necessary to save the tooth when the pulp tissue (soft tissue) is infected and dead. This can happen due to deep decay or trauma from an accident or fall. The whole purpose of root canal treatment is to save natural teeth instead of removing them.
You may not feel any pain in the early stages of the infection. In some cases, your tooth could darken in color, which may mean that the nerve of the tooth has died or is dying. If the infection is left untreated, it can cause severe damage.
Root Canal Treatment Singapore Cost
This treatment fee is an estimate & subject to change. Please check with your clinician for an exact fee based on your unique clinical condition.
The cost of root canal treatment in Singapore depends on a few factors, including the type of tooth, the extent of the damage, and the cost of post-root canal treatment (crowns).
- Type of tooth: Molars are the largest teeth, followed by premolars and anterior teeth. The complexity of the root canal procedure increases with the number of roots and the number of canals within a root.
- Extent of the damage: If the damage is extensive, the dentist will need to fill in more structure to replace the missing tooth. Conversely, if the damage is minimal, the dentist may be able to save the tooth without filling in any additional structure.
- Post-treatment: Your dentist may suggest dental crowns to complete the teeth. The cost of crowns can vary depending on the material used.
Root Canal Treatment Singapore: Can I use MediSave/CHAS?
Root canal treatment in Singapore is not covered by MediSave and is therefore not claimable. However, you can claim through CHAS. CHAS subsidies are available for both root canal treatment (up to 2 per calendar year) and dental crowns (up to 4 per calendar year). You can find the relevant subsidies below:
| CHAS Category | Subsidies for Root Canal Treatment | Subsidies for Dental Crowns |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | Between $109.50 and $170.50 per procedure | Between $164 and $256.50 per procedure |
| Blue | Between $164 and $256.50 per procedure | Between $256.50 and $349 per procedure |
| Merdeka Generation | Between $169 and $261.50 per procedure | Between $261.50 and $354 per procedure |
| Pioneer Generation | Between $174 and $266.50 per procedure | Between $266.50 and $359 per procedure |
To claim CHAS subsidies, you will need to present your CHAS card to your dentist.
Above subsides are subject to change based on CHAS provisions.
What are the signs that you need Root Canal Treatment?
You may feel some or all of these symptoms, and these are common indications of the need for a root canal:
- Spontaneous pain or throbbing while biting
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods that is not relieved by other means
- Severe tooth decay or an injury that creates an abscess (infection) in the bone
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Root canal treatment is a safe and effective way to save a tooth that is damaged by decay or infection.
Here are some additional signs that you may need a root canal:
- A persistent bad taste in your mouth
- Gum swelling or bleeding
- A feeling of pressure in your face or jaw
- A fever
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist right away. Root canal treatment is a necessary procedure to prevent the spread of infection and save your tooth.
Root Canal Treatment Singapore | Root Canal Procedures
This treatment may require two or more visits to the dentist, as it has to be performed meticulously. The aim of the treatment is to remove as much infection from the root canal as possible.
First Visit:
The dentist will take some X-rays during the procedure. The tooth is isolated with a rubber dam and a clamp on the tooth. This is done to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.
The dentist will administer an injection (local anaesthetic) to the area around the tooth. You will feel a bit “fat” on the cheeks when you are numb. The dentist will drill, remove all decay present, and make an opening into the pulp chamber. Next, using a very fine instrument known as a file, the infected nerve is located and removed. The canal is rinsed, and medication is placed inside the root canal to kill bacteria. The dentist will place a temporary filling to protect the canal. This is done to prevent it from being damaged by saliva. A material called gutta-percha, a plastic substance from a Malaysian tree called a percha tree, is used as a permanent filling in root canals.
Subsequent Visit:
At the second visit, the dentist will numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. The temporary filling in the tooth will be removed. Progressively thicker files are used to clean and shape the entire length of the root canal. Medication is placed within the root again and a temporary filling is placed.
The dentist may have to repeat the procedure in another visit, depending on the number of canals and the complexity of the case. Finally, the root canal is rinsed, dried, and filled with a rubber material called gutta-percha. A filling is placed on top. Your dentist will take a post-operative x-ray to check if all affected areas are treated. The dentist may also suggest a dental crown following the treatment to reinforce and restore the tooth.
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its function. The crown is made of a strong material, such as porcelain or metal, and it is bonded to the tooth.
Why do we need to do crowns after RCT?
It depends! After the root canal, your dentist will inform you if you require a crown or not based on your tooth’s condition and by examining the remaining tooth structure. Generally, if the remaining tooth structure is less than half of the tooth, your dentist will suggest a dental crown. So, you will need to have the crown of the tooth rebuilt if it is missing more than half of its original structure.
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its function. The crown is made of a strong material, such as porcelain or metal, and it is bonded to the tooth.
Is Root Canal Treatment painful?
f you are afraid that it is painful, you can stop worrying because the procedure is similar to having a filling placed. You may experience slight discomfort, but the pain before the dental care is likely much worse than during the procedure itself. The pulp inflammation or infection causes toothache or pain. When the infected pulp is removed, it can relieve the pain and save the natural tooth. Modern techniques and anesthetics used will keep you as comfortable as possible.
Here are some things you can expect during a root canal treatment:
- Local anesthetic: Your dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic. This will make the procedure painless.
- Drilling: The dentist will make a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp.
- Removal of the pulp: The dentist will remove the infected pulp from the tooth.
- Cleaning and shaping of the root canals: The dentist will clean and shape the root canals to remove any bacteria.
- Filling of the root canals: The dentist will fill the root canals with a material that will prevent bacteria from growing.
- Crown: In some cases, the dentist may place a crown on the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
What can I eat after the root canal treatment?
After a root canal treatment, it is important to avoid chewing hard food. This is because the tooth is now weakened and more likely to fracture.
Here are some soft foods that you can eat after a root canal treatment:
- Smoothies / Yogurt/ Ice cream/ Milkshakes
- Soups/ Soft salads/ Mashed potatoes
- Macaroni and cheese / Eggs
- Milk/ Cream of wheat/ Pancakes
- Bananas/ Mangoes/ Pears/ Peaches/ Applesauce
- Pudding
- Hummus
It is also important to avoid biting on hard objects, such as ice, nuts, and seeds. These objects can also cause the tooth to fracture.
These types of foods and beverages can cause damage after a root canal treatment:
- Hot and cold food and beverages can irritate sensitive teeth.
- Sticky foods like gum, caramel, and other candies can stick to your teeth.
- Chewy foods like steak and crusty bread will require a lot of chewing.
- Hard foods like nuts can damage the tooth.
It is advisable to not eat for a few hours until the numbness in your mouth goes off so you don’t bite your cheek or tongue.
If you have any questions or concerns about what you can eat after a root canal treatment, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Can you still get pain in a tooth that has had a root canal?
Yes, it is possible to still get pain in a tooth that has had a root canal. This is because the tooth is now dead and can no longer heal itself. There are a few reasons why you might experience pain in a tooth that has had a root canal:
- Incomplete root canal treatment: If the root canal was not done properly, bacteria can still be present in the tooth, which can cause pain.
- Recurrent infection: Even if the root canal was done properly, bacteria can sometimes re-enter the tooth, which can also cause pain.
- Fractured tooth: If the tooth is fractured, this can cause pain and sensitivity.
- Pericoronitis: Pericoronitis is an inflammation of the tissue around the wisdom tooth. This can cause pain in the tooth that is next to the wisdom tooth.
If you are experiencing pain in a tooth that has had a root canal, it is important to see your dentist to determine the cause of the pain. Depending on the cause, your dentist may recommend a root canal retreatment, a crown, or extraction.
Here are some tips to help prevent pain in a tooth that has had a root canal:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, which can help to prevent infection.
- See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This will help to identify any problems early on, when they are easier to treat.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods. This can put stress on the tooth and make it more likely to fracture.
- Get a crown if your dentist recommends it. A crown will help to protect the tooth and prevent it from fracturing.
Insurance & Subsidies
CHAS
We are a CHAS-approved dental clinic. We accept valid CHAS, Merdeka and Pioneer Generation cards.
Baby Bonus Scheme CDA
Smilepoint is a Baby Bonus (CDA) approved institution. You can use the funds from the CDA for dental treatments.
Mohammad Faizal
29/04/2023
Great service! Thank you 😁
Mohanakrishna Tamilaras
29/04/2023
Staff were very kind and were informative in dental hygiene.
Peggy Wong
29/04/2023
Dr Mabel was such a gem to my 5 years old ! Highly recommended
Very kids friendly environment and the staff are Superb !
Derrick Wee
26/04/2023
Had my teeth whitening done with Dr Mark and I was very happy with the result! The whole procedure was smooth and he made me feel at ease. Dr Mark’s knowledge, skills and kindness is admirable. Friendly staff at Smilepoint Dental too!
Suraj Patil
26/04/2023
Setting up appointment is easy. They will send reminders. Checking in and out is easy and fast. Been seeing Dr Ismeeta for years, fantastic dentist.
Alvin Cheng
25/04/2023
Made the best decision to do my braces here with Smilepoint Dental! It took 3 years and the results turned out great! Dr Ng had always been friendly and patient throughout the entire process. Thank you!
Amanda
25/04/2023
Fabulous experience. Dr Jolene is very gentle and great with kids. Highly recommend
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