Treatment

Root Canal Treatment (RCT)

Overview

Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that is badly decayed, infected or damaged. Instead of removing the tooth, the infected pulp (soft tissue inside the root) is removed, cleaned, disinfected and sealed. This helps relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection while keeping your natural tooth intact. It’s a common treatment done by a root canal specialist, especially for cases involving deep cavities or tooth nerve damage.

Why Root Canal Treatment (RCT) Treatment is Required?

• When tooth pain becomes severe due to decay reaching the tooth root.
• In cases of root canal infection or RCT infection causing swelling or pus.
• If you experience tooth sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the trigger is gone.
• Presence of deep cavities or cracks leading to pulp damage.
• To treat trauma or injury to a tooth that has exposed or damaged the tooth nerve.
• When there is persistent gum swelling, tenderness or jaw pain.

Key Advantages of Root Canal Treatment (RCT) Treatment

• Saves your natural tooth without extraction.
• Relieves severe root canal pain and discomfort.
• Improves overall oral health and function.
• Prevents the spread of infection to other teeth or bones.
• Allows placement of a crown after root canal for long-term protection.
• Faster healing with proper aftercare.
• Long-lasting results.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Root Canal Treatment (RCT) Treatment

• Eat a light meal beforehand if not under sedation.
• Avoid smoking or alcohol 24 hours before the procedure.
• Inform your dentist if you take any medications.
• Brush and floss gently before your appointment.
• Discuss any anxiety – sedation may be an option for emergency root canal cases.
• Ask your dentist about root canal cost and procedure duration.

How Root Canal Treatment (RCT) Treatment is Performed?

• Dentist takes an X-ray to check root canal symptoms and shape.
• Local anesthesia is applied – is RCT painful? Not with numbing.
• A small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp.
• Infected pulp is removed, and the canal is cleaned thoroughly.
• The canal is then filled and sealed with a special material.
• A temporary filling is placed until a root canal and crown is done later.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Consultation, diagnosis and X-rays.
• Discussion about anesthesia and pain control.
• Dentist reviews symptoms of needing a root canal.
• During Procedure:
• You will feel pressure but no pain due to anesthesia.
• Procedure may take 1 to 2 hours depending on the tooth.
• Dentist removes infection and seals the root.
• After Procedure:
• Mild tooth pain after root canal is normal for a few days.
• Avoid hard or sticky food until permanent crown is placed.
• Follow root canal after care tips like gentle brushing and rest.
• You can usually drive after a root canal.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Temporary discomfort or throbbing pain after root canal.
• Swelling or inflammation for a few days.
• Rare risk of reinfection or infected root canal if not sealed properly.
• Minor risk of RCT side effects like jaw soreness.
• Occasionally, the tooth may crack if a crown after root canal is delayed.

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
• Pain relief is usually felt within 1–2 days.
• Treated teeth with crowns can last a lifetime.
• Good oral hygiene and routine dental checkups are key for success.
• Root canal before and after results often show dramatic improvement in comfort and function.