Root Canal

Painless Root Canal Treatment by Experienced Dentists

Save your natural tooth with advanced rotary RCT, safe, affordable, and stress-free.

Starting at Rs. 2000

What Is Root Canal Treatment Used For?

Root canal treatment is commonly used to treat infections or damage deep within a tooth, specifically in the pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. This procedure becomes necessary when tooth decay has progressed and reached the pulp, or when a tooth has been cracked, broken, or injured. Root canal therapy is also used to treat dental abscesses, which are pus-filled pockets near the root of a tooth caused by bacterial infection. In cases where a tooth becomes severely painful or sensitive due to nerve damage, or when previous dental treatments like fillings or crowns have failed, root canal treatment is often the most effective way to save the natural tooth and relieve pain.

Your Attractive Heading

Comparison	Root Canal	Tooth Extraction
Common Recommendation	When the goal is to relieve pain and save the natural tooth.	When tooth is beyond repair or causing complications.
Long-Term Impact	Retains natural alignment and bite.	May affect alignment of surrounding teeth if not replaced.
Suitability for Severe Infection	Suitable when the tooth structure can still be preserved.	Suitable when infection is too severe to save the tooth.
Risk of Bone Loss	Helps maintain jawbone by preserving the tooth root.	High risk of jawbone loss due to missing tooth.
Cost in the Long Run	May be more cost-effective long-term as it avoids tooth replacement.	Initial cost may be lower, but replacement options can be expensive over time.
Aesthetic Outcome	Preserves natural appearance of the tooth.	May impact smile unless tooth is replaced.
Functionality	Maintains original tooth functionality.	Requires an artificial replacement for chewing and speech.
Post-Treatment Requirement	Often requires a crown for added protection.	May require a replacement like implant, bridge, or denture.
Recovery Time	Usually 1–2 days of mild discomfort.	7–10 days or longer, depending on healing.
Tooth Preservation	Natural tooth is preserved.	Tooth is permanently lost.
Pain Level	Mild to moderate discomfort, mostly post-procedure.	Some discomfort during and after the procedure.
Procedure	Infected pulp is removed, canals are cleaned, disinfected, and sealed.	Tooth is completely removed from the socket.

Benefits of Root Canal vs. Risks of Avoidance

Benefits of Root Canal

Relieves severe tooth pain and sensitivity.
Stops the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues.
Saves your natural tooth from extraction.
Maintains natural chewing and speaking ability.
Prevents changes in bite and jaw alignment.
Preserves jawbone by keeping the tooth in place.
Restores full function and appearance with a crown.
Long-lasting results when combined with proper care.

Risks of Not Getting Root Canal

Continued and worsening tooth pain.
Infection spreading to other teeth or jawbone.
Formation of a dental abscess (pocket of pus).
Swelling in the face, gums, or neck.
Tooth loss requiring replacement with a bridge or implant.
Damage to surrounding teeth and bone.
Higher dental costs from delayed treatment.

Root Canal Treatment Procedure

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure used to save a damaged or infected tooth. Here’s how the process typically works.

Step 1:

X-ray and Local Anesthesia

The first step in a root canal procedure is to take a dental X-ray of the affected tooth. This helps the dentist see the extent of infection and the shape of the root canals.
Before starting the procedure, local anesthesia is given to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures that you stay comfortable and pain-free during the treatment.

Step 2:

Accessing the Tooth and Removing Decay

Once the area is numb, the dentist makes a small opening in the tooth to reach the infected pulp inside. Any decayed tooth structure or old filling material is carefully removed. This step is important to clear a path to the root canals and prepare the tooth for cleaning.

Step 3:

Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals

Next, the dentist cleans out the infected or damaged pulp tissue from inside the tooth using special tools. The root canals are then shaped and disinfected to remove bacteria and prevent further infection. This deep cleaning is essential to stop the spread of infection and prepare the canals for sealing.

Step 4:

Sealing the Root Canals

After cleaning, the root canals are dried and filled with a rubber-like material called Gutta-Percha. This material seals the canals and prevents bacteria from getting back in. A temporary filling may be placed on top of the tooth if a crown is not added on the same day.

Step 5:

Final Restoration and Crown Placement

In the final step, the top part of the tooth (called the crown) is restored using a filling. Since a tooth that has had a root canal becomes weaker over time, a dental crown (a protective cap) is usually placed on the tooth. The crown strengthens the tooth and restores its normal shape, appearance, and function.

Do’s and Don’ts After Getting Root Canal

Do’s

Follow your dentist’s post-treatment instructions.
Take prescribed medication as directed.
Eat soft foods for a few days.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
Schedule a crown placement if advised.
Go for regular dental check-ups.
Rest if you feel any soreness after the procedure.

Don’ts

Don’t eat until the numbness wears off.
Avoid chewing on the treated side until the crown is placed.
Don’t bite into hard or crunchy foods.
Avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
Don’t skip follow-up appointments.
Avoid very hot or cold foods immediately after treatment.

FAQs About Root Canal Treatment

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat a tooth that has an infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels). During the treatment, the dentist removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans the root canals, and fills the space with a special material to seal it. This helps stop the infection, relieve tooth pain, and save the natural tooth.

Is a root canal painful?

Thanks to modern dental technology and local anesthesia, root canal procedures are usually not painful. Most patients say the treatment is no more uncomfortable than getting a regular filling. In fact, it helps relieve the pain caused by the infection or inflammation. Some mild soreness afterward is normal but goes away in a few days.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

You might need a root canal if you experience:
– Severe or constant tooth pain
– Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
– Swelling or tenderness in the gums
– A discolored or darkened tooth
– A small bump or pimple on the gums (abscess)
Only a dentist can confirm if you need a root canal by doing a clinical exam and taking X-rays of the tooth.

What happens during a root canal?

During a root canal treatment:
1) The dentist gives you local anesthesia to numb the area.
2) A small opening is made in the tooth.
3) The infected pulp is removed.
4) The inside of the tooth and root canals are cleaned and shaped.
5) The space is filled with a safe material called gutta-percha and sealed.
6) A dental crown is usually added later to protect the tooth.

How long does it take to heal after a root canal?

Most people feel better within a few days after a root canal. Some mild discomfort or sensitivity is normal but can be managed with pain relievers. Complete healing of the tooth and surrounding area can take a few weeks. You can usually go back to normal activities the next day.

Why do I need a crown after a root canal?

After root canal treatment, the tooth can become weaker and more brittle. A dental crown acts like a protective cap. It restores the strength, shape, and function of your tooth and keeps it from breaking. A crown also makes the tooth look natural again.

What if I delay or avoid root canal treatment?

Delaying or skipping a root canal can lead to serious problems, including:
– Severe tooth pain
– Tooth loss
– The spread of infection to gums, jawbone, or nearby teeth
– Formation of dental abscesses
– The need for more expensive or invasive treatments like extraction or implants.

How long does a root canal last?

If you take good care of your teeth and get a crown placed after treatment, a tooth treated with a root canal can last 10–15 years or even a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene help ensure long-term success.

Can a root canal fail?

Yes, although root canal treatment has a high success rate, it can fail if:
– An infected canal is missed during treatment
– The tooth develops a new infection
– The crown or filling is delayed, allowing bacteria to re-enter
In such cases, the tooth can often be saved with a root canal retreatment or, in some situations, minor endodontic surgery.

Can I eat after a root canal?

Yes, but it’s best to wait until the numbness from the anesthesia wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. Start with soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed.