Root Canal Treatment (RCT)

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure used to treat infection at the center of a tooth (the root canal system). It is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes inflamed or infected.

Why is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?

Root canal treatment is needed when the pulp inside the tooth is infected due to:

  • Deep decay
  • Repeated dental procedures on the tooth
  • Faulty crowns
  • Cracks or chips in the tooth
  • Trauma to the face

Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to an abscess and causing pain and swelling.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
  • Pain Relief: Eliminates the pain caused by an infected or inflamed pulp.
  • Saves the Tooth: Helps retain your natural tooth, avoiding extraction.
  • Improves Oral Health: Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and gums.
  • Restores Function: Allows the tooth to function normally after restoration.
The Root Canal Treatment Process
  1. Diagnosis: The dentist takes X-rays to see the shape of the root canals and determine if there are any signs of infection.
  2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
  3. Access Opening: An opening is made through the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
  4. Cleaning and Shaping: The infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the inside of the root canal is cleaned and shaped.
  5. Filling: The root canal is filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, and sealed.
  6. Restoration: A crown or filling is placed to restore the tooth’s shape, function, and appearance.
Aftercare for Root Canal Treatment
  • Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
  • Diet: Avoid chewing on hard foods until the treatment is completed to prevent damage.
  • Follow-up: Visit your dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure the treated tooth is healing properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

With modern techniques and anesthetics, root canal treatment is no more painful than having a filling placed. Any discomfort after the procedure can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How Long Does a Root Canal Treatment Take?

A root canal can typically be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of the tooth and the complexity of the case.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost?

The cost varies based on the complexity of the procedure and the specific tooth affected. Generally, it is less expensive than extracting the tooth and replacing it with a bridge or implant.

Can a Root Canal Fail?

While root canal treatments have a high success rate, there are instances where a tooth may not heal as expected due to undetected canal anatomy or other complications. In such cases, additional treatment or surgery may be needed.

Conclusion

Root canal treatment is a highly effective way to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. If you experience symptoms like severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, or swelling and tenderness, consult your dentist to determine if a root canal is the right solution for you.

Cost Information

ROOT CANAL TREATMENT will be done by ENDODONTIST 
MDS (Masters degree in Conservative and Endodontics) 

Dr. Suraj Shrestha

(NMC Reg. No: 14692)