Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has been badly decayed, infected, or damaged. During the treatment, the infected pulp inside the tooth is removed, the canals are cleaned and disinfected, and the space is filled and sealed to prevent future infection. This allows the natural tooth to be preserved instead of being extracted.
When Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
RCT is usually recommended when decay or infection reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, causing pain, sensitivity, or swelling. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort and is a safe, effective way to relieve toothache while maintaining your natural smile.
A successful Root Canal not only relieves pain but also restores normal chewing and biting function. In most cases, a crown is placed on the treated tooth to provide strength and long-term protection. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, teeth treated with RCT can last a lifetime.
Choosing RCT over extraction has many advantages. It helps you retain your natural tooth, allowing you to chew and speak normally. It also prevents the shifting of nearby teeth, which can happen when a tooth is removed. By saving the tooth, RCT maintains the natural appearance of your smile and avoids the need for replacements like implants or bridges.
The Procedure
The treatment is performed under local anesthesia, making it virtually painless. During the procedure, the dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected tissue is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped, and sealed. Finally, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling to strengthen it and restore full functionality.