Root Canal Treatment is a dental procedure used to remove infected or damaged pulp (soft tissue) inside a tooth. The space is then cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed to prevent further infection. It allows you to save your natural tooth rather than removing it.

You may need an RCT if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to:

• Deep decay (cavities)
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
• Cracks, chips, or trauma to the tooth
• Gum disease spreading to the root

If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing pain, swelling, abscesses, or even tooth loss.

Common signs include:

• Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• A pimple or boil on the gums (abscess)

Not all infected teeth cause pain — sometimes, only an X-ray can reveal the need for RCT.

No, modern root canal treatments are virtually painless. With local anesthesia and advanced techniques, most patients report that the procedure feels no worse than getting a filling. In fact, the purpose of an RCT is to relieve the pain caused by infection.

The duration depends on the complexity of the tooth:

• A single-rooted tooth (like an incisor) may take about 30–60 minutes.
• A multi-rooted tooth (like a molar) can take 60–90 minutes and may require 2 visits.

Your dentist will explain your specific case during consultation.

Here’s a basic overview of the steps involved:

1. Numbing the tooth and surrounding area
2. Creating a small opening in the crown to access the pulp
3. Cleaning and shaping the root canals using fine instruments
4. Disinfecting the area to eliminate bacteria
5. Filling the canals with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha)
6. Sealing the tooth and placing a temporary or permanent filling/crown

After the procedure, it’s normal to experience:

• Mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days
• Slight swelling or tenderness

This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your dentist may recommend a follow-up crown to protect the tooth and restore full function.

In most cases, yes — especially for molars and premolars. A crown strengthens the tooth and prevents it from cracking or breaking in the future. For front teeth, a filling may be sufficient if the tooth structure is mostly intact.

With proper care, a tooth that has had an RCT can last a lifetime. However, regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding hard foods are essential for long-term success.

Yes, RCT is a safe and highly successful procedure. Modern root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95% and is widely used by dentists to save natural teeth.

The main alternative is tooth extraction, which may be followed by:

• A dental implant
• A bridge
• A partial denture

However, saving your natural tooth is almost always the preferred option when possible.

Yes, most patients return to normal activities the same day. However, you may prefer to rest for a few hours if you're feeling sore or tired after the procedure.

The treated tooth may feel slightly different than your other teeth — especially if it had significant damage before treatment. However, it should not cause pain or discomfort once fully healed.

To ensure the long-term success of your RCT:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, rinsing)
• Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until fully restored
• Follow your dentist’s recommendations for crowns or follow-up care
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups