Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. It involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), cleaning the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection. This treatment is designed to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to severe decay or trauma.

Why is a Root Canal Needed?

A root canal is necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected, damaged, or inflamed due to:

• Deep decay (cavities).
• Repeated dental procedures on the tooth.
• Cracks or chips in the tooth.
• Trauma to the tooth (even if the damage is not visible).

When the pulp is damaged, bacteria can multiply within the tooth, leading to infection, abscess formation, and severe pain.

Symptoms Indicating a Need for Root Canal:

• Severe tooth pain when chewing or applying pressure.
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
• Darkening of the tooth.
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums.
• A recurring pimple on the gums.

Root Canal Procedure Steps:

1. Examination and Diagnosis:

   • The dentist takes X-rays to examine the extent of infection and the shape of the root canals.

2. Anesthesia:

   • Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

3. Access Opening:

   • The dentist drills an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.

4. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals:

   • Using specialized tools, the dentist removes the infected or dead pulp tissue. The root canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare them for filling.

5. Filling the Root Canals:

   • After cleaning, the dentist fills the root canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the canals to prevent future infection. An adhesive cement is used to seal the opening.

6. Temporary or Permanent Filling:

   • In some cases, the tooth is temporarily sealed with a filling until a permanent restoration (such as a crown) can be placed.

7. Crown Placement:

   • To protect the tooth, especially if it’s severely weakened, a dental crown is often placed over the tooth. This helps restore function and appearance and prevents further damage.

Post-Treatment Care:

• Mild discomfort or sensitivity may be felt for a few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, are typically effective for managing pain.
• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a crown to prevent cracking or reinfection.
• Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, is essential to protect the treated tooth and overall dental health.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment:

• Pain Relief: RCT eliminates the infection and inflammation that cause tooth pain.
• Tooth Preservation: It allows you to keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted, preserving your smile and the ability to chew naturally.
• Prevention of Infection Spread: By removing the infected pulp, RCT prevents the infection from spreading to surrounding tissues, including the jawbone.

Alternatives to Root Canal:

The only alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction. After extraction, the missing tooth can be replaced with:

• A dental implant.
• A fixed bridge.
• A removable denture.

However, these alternatives often involve more complex procedures, greater cost, and additional time. Root canal treatment allows you to retain your natural tooth, which is generally preferable when possible.