Root Canal Treatment
Treatment Overview
- Number of Visits: 2–3
- Appointment Time Per Visit: 60–90 minutes
- Recovery Period: Minimal—most patients resume normal activities the same day
Key summary: Root canal (endodontic) treatment removes infected or dead pulp from inside the tooth, then disinfects and seals the canals to save your natural tooth instead of extracting it. Treatment usually takes 2–3 visits of about 60–90 minutes each; with modern local anaesthetic it feels similar to a regular filling. Our Discovery Bay North Plaza clinic uses a high-powered surgical microscope (microscopic root canal) for more precise cleaning of the fine canals.
When Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
A root canal treatment becomes necessary when infection or damage reaches the tooth’s pulp—the soft tissue inside containing nerves and blood vessels. Left untreated, this can lead to abscesses or tooth loss. Look out for these signs that may indicate you need root canal treatment:
✅ Severe, persistent toothache.
✅ Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold.
✅ Swollen or tender gums near the tooth.
✅ Darkening or discoloration of the tooth.
During your visit, we’ll perform a thorough exam, including X-rays, to confirm if root canal treatment is the right option for you.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment
Step 1: Diagnosis
We use X-rays (and, at our North Plaza clinic, a surgical microscope) to inspect the tooth, revealing cracks, fractures, and infection.
Step 2: Procedure
After numbing the area, we open the tooth, remove the infected pulp and abscess, and clean the inner canals.
Step 3: Filling
The tooth is sealed with a biocompatible material to protect it long-term.
Step 4: Visualization
Watch the process on a TV screen as we show you the inside of your tooth—transparency builds trust!
At our North Plaza clinic, a surgical microscope helps us see fine detail inside the tooth. Most treatments take 2–3 visits, each lasting 60–90 minutes.
Comfort Is Our Priority
You’ll be fully numbed before we start, and we offer sedation options like nitrous oxide (“happy gas”) to ease any anxiety. Our team takes time to explain each step, and if you need a break, just let us know—we’re here to keep you relaxed and in control.
Microscopic Root Canal: More Precise Cleaning
Root canal systems are narrow and complex, and hard to see with the naked eye. In root canal treatment our Discovery Bay North Plaza clinic uses a high-powered surgical microscope to magnify and light the treatment area, helping the dentist identify fine cracks, extra canals and residual infected tissue for more precise cleaning and a more predictable outcome. Combined with X-ray imaging, we assess the tooth before and after treatment and let you see inside your own tooth on screen.
Crowns After Root Canal Treatment
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
✔️ Pain Relief: Eliminates toothache and sensitivity.
✔️ Tooth Preservation: Saves your natural tooth instead of extracting it.
✔️ Microscope-Assisted: A surgical microscope at our North Plaza clinic helps with thorough cleaning.
✔️ Quick Recovery: Minimal downtime—back to normal in a day.
At Bayside Dental Discovery Bay, root canal treatment is a proven way to restore your oral health with minimal discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does root canal treatment cost in Hong Kong?
The Prince Philip Dental Hospital fee schedule lists root canal treatment at about HK$6,600–25,000 per tooth and retreatment at HK$8,000–20,000. Front teeth have fewer canals and usually sit at the lower end; molars sit higher. A crown afterwards is charged separately, at about HK$7,700–12,000 per unit. These figures are for reference only and are not our clinic’s actual fees; your fee is confirmed after an examination and X-ray. See our Dental Fee Reference.
How long does a root canal take?
Usually 2–3 visits of about 60–90 minutes each, depending on the number of canals and the level of infection. Simple cases may be quicker; complex or severely infected teeth may need more visits. A crown is normally fitted afterwards to protect the tooth.
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic and generally feels similar to a regular filling — most patients feel little to no pain during treatment. If the pulp is already inflamed beforehand it may be painful, and the root canal is what relieves that infection. Mild tenderness for a few days afterwards is normal and usually settles; contact us if you have severe or lasting pain or swelling.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases a crown is recommended. A treated tooth loses its blood supply and becomes more brittle and prone to fracture, especially back teeth that take chewing force; a crown covers and protects it. For front teeth or teeth with plenty of remaining structure, your dentist may suggest an alternative restoration based on the condition of the tooth.
Are there side effects or risks?
Root canal treatment is a well-established way to keep your natural tooth and has a high success rate of over 95% when the tooth is properly treated and cared for. Mild tenderness shortly afterwards is normal. In a minority of cases — residual infection or a severely cracked tooth — re-treatment or another approach may be needed. Attending follow-ups, following aftercare and (if advised) getting a crown help reduce these risks. Microscope-assisted cleaning also helps reduce residual infection.
What is microscopic root canal treatment?
Microscopic root canal treatment uses a high-powered surgical microscope during the procedure to magnify and light the narrow canals, helping the dentist see fine cracks and extra canals for more precise cleaning. Our Discovery Bay North Plaza clinic is equipped with a surgical microscope; compared with the naked eye alone, microscope assistance helps with more complex canal anatomy. Whether it is used depends on your case.
Book a Root Canal Consultation
Toothache or an infected tooth? Your dentist will examine it first, then discuss whether root canal treatment is needed. Both clinics are in Discovery Bay — choose the one closest to you: