Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is performed when the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected or inflamed. The procedure involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp, cleaning the root canal system, and filling it with a dental material to prevent further infection. RCT has a bad reputation as being a painful and unpleasant procedure. However, with modern advancements in dental technology and anesthesia, RCT is now a relatively painless procedure that can save your tooth and prevent further oral health problems.

In this article, Dr. Pooja Jain, the best Dentist in South Delhi will discuss what root canal treatment is, why it is necessary, how it is performed, and what to expect during and after the procedure.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that is performed to remove the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help to nourish the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.

Why is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?

Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can occur due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the tooth. If left untreated, the infection or inflammation can spread to the surrounding tissues and lead to abscesses, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

How is Root Canal Treatment performed?

RCT is performed in several steps and usually requires one or two appointments with your dentist. The procedure is typically performed by an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating the pulp of teeth.

Step 1: Examination and diagnosis

The first step in RCT is to examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage to the pulp. Your dentist will also numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.

Step 2: Removing the pulp

Once the tooth is numb, your dentist will create a small opening in the top of the tooth and use small instruments to remove the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth. They will also clean and shape the root canals to prepare them for filling.

Step 3: Filling the root canals

After the pulp has been removed, your dentist will fill the root canals with a dental material called gutta-percha. This material is used to seal the canals and prevent further infection.

Step 4: Restoring the tooth

After the root canals have been filled, your dentist will restore the tooth with a filling or crown to protect it from further damage.

What to expect during and after the procedure

Root canal treatment is a relatively painless procedure thanks to modern anesthesia techniques. During the procedure, you may feel pressure or vibrations, but you should not feel any pain. After the procedure, your tooth may be sensitive for a few days, and you may need to take over-the-counter pain medication to manage any discomfort.

In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help prevent or treat infection. You should also avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the restoration is complete.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

RCT has several benefits, including:

• Saving your tooth: RCT can save your tooth and prevent the need for extraction, which can lead to further oral health problems.
• Pain relief: RCT can relieve the pain caused by an infected or inflamed pulp.
• Improved oral health: By removing the infected or inflamed pulp, RCT can prevent the spread of infection and protect the surrounding teeth from damage.
• Cost-effective: Root canal treatment is more cost-effective than extraction followed by tooth replacement, such as with a dental implant.

Overall, RCT is an effective way to save a damaged tooth and relieve pain and discomfort. If you suspect that you need RCT, it’s important to contact your dentist for an evaluation and treatment recommendation.