Root Canal Treatment

Why Is It Needed?

RCT is recommended when:

• There's deep decay or cavity reaching the pulp

• The tooth has repeated dental procedures

• There is a crack or chip in the tooth

• The pulp is inflamed, infected, or dead due to trauma or bacteria

Symptoms that may require RCT:

• Persistent toothache

• Sensitivity to hot/cold

• Swelling or pus around the gum

• Discoloration of the tooth

• Pain when chewing or touching

 

How Is It Done? (Steps)

1. Diagnosis

   • X-ray to see the root canal shape and detect infection.

2. Local Anesthesia

   • Numbing the area to ensure a pain-free procedure.

3. Access Opening

   • A small hole is drilled in the tooth to reach the pulp.

4. Pulp Removal

   • Diseased pulp is removed with files.

5. Cleaning & Shaping

   • Root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.

6. Filling

   • Canals are filled with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha).

7. Sealing

   • Temporary or permanent filling placed to close the tooth.

8. Restoration

   • A crown is usually placed later to restore full function and strength.

 

Types of Root Canal Treatments

1. Conventional RCT

   • Standard method using hand or rotary instruments.

2. Single-Visit RCT

   • Completed in one sitting; suitable for cases without infection.

3. Multiple-Visit RCT

   • Used when infection is present; includes placing medicine (e.g., calcium hydroxide) between visits.

4. Retreatment RCT

   • Done when a previous root canal fails.

5. LASER assisted RCT  - Laser is used to disinfect canals in addition to standard method of cleaning

6. Apicoectomy (Endodontic Surgery)

   • Surgical option if standard RCT fails; tip of the root is removed.     

 

 How Many Visits Are Needed?

• Single Visit:

  • Suitable for uncomplicated cases with no swelling or pus.

• Two or More Visits:

  • Used if there’s infection, abscess, or complex anatomy.

  • First visit: cleaning & medication

  • Second/third: filling, sealing, and crown placement

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