Author: Dr Pavithra Prabakaran , BDS, MDS, Assistant Professor, Department of Dentistry, BGS Medical College & Hospital
When you hear the words “root canal”, do you imagine pain and endless dental visits?
You're not alone—but the truth is, Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a tooth-saving superhero in the world of dentistry. It’s a safe, effective procedure that can relieve pain and prevent tooth loss.
Let’s take a closer look at what RCT really involves, why it's often better than extraction, and when you might need it.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal Treatment is done when the innermost part of the tooth—the pulp—gets infected, inflamed, or damaged due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks.
During RCT, the dentist:
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Removes the infected pulp
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Cleans and shapes the root canals
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Seals them to prevent reinfection
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Restores the tooth with a crown for full function and appearance
The goal? To save your natural tooth so it can keep doing its job pain-free.
Why Choose RCT Over Extraction?
There are several benefits to saving a tooth rather than pulling it out:
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Preserves natural function: You can chew and bite just like before.
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Maintains bite and alignment: No drifting or shifting of neighboring teeth.
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Keeps the smile intact: A crown can be color-matched to your natural teeth.
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Better long -term oral health: Avoids complications linked to missing teeth.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Watch out for these common warning signs:
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Tooth pain that lingers, especially while eating
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Swelling or tenderness near the gums
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Pus discharge from the gums
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Facial or jaw swelling
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Tooth discoloration or darkening due to decay or trauma
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait—visit your dentist.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the RCT process:
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Numbing the area with local anesthesia
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Opening the tooth to access the pulp chamber
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Cleaning and shaping the canals using precise tools
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Filling the canals with gutta-percha (a biocompatible material)
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Sealing and restoring the tooth with a crown to bring back full function
Is a Crown Always Needed After RCT?
In most cases, yes. A crown gives the treated tooth strength and protection, especially while chewing. Crowns come in different materials like:
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All-metal
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Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
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All-ceramic/Zirconia
If much of the original tooth is lost, your dentist may place a post and core before crowning the tooth to ensure durability.
Take-Home Message
Root Canal Treatment isn't something to fear—it's a modern, effective solution to rescue your tooth and relieve dental pain. Saving your natural tooth is always the best option whenever possible, and RCT makes that happen.
If you're experiencing tooth pain or swelling, don’t delay. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can make all the difference!
Need guidance or have questions about RCT? Talk to your dentist—they’ll walk you through the best plan for your smile.
