What Is Root Canal Treatment? Causes, Procedure & Benefits

Root canal treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure that saves a severely decayed, infected, or damaged tooth. Instead of extracting the tooth, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the canal, and seals it — relieving pain while preserving the natural tooth.

Moreover, modern dental techniques have made root canal treatment safe, comfortable, and highly effective. At Jyoti Hospital, Gurugram, our Dental specialists use advanced root canal techniques to ensure painless treatment, infection control, and long-term tooth preservation.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Inside every tooth lies a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When decay, trauma, or cracks infect the pulp, patients often experience severe pain and swelling.

Therefore, during RCT treatment, the dentist:

• Removes the infected pulp
• Cleans and disinfects the root canals
• Shapes and seals the canals
• Restores the tooth to full function

As a result, infection is eliminated, pain is relieved, and the natural tooth is preserved.

When Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?

Dentists typically recommend RCT treatment when patients experience:

• Deep tooth decay that reaches the nerve
• Severe tooth pain while chewing or biting
• Long-lasting sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swelling, pus, or abscess near the tooth
• Tooth discoloration due to nerve damage
• Trauma or fractures that expose the pulp
• Infection visible on dental X-ray near the root tip

However, delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread, which may eventually result in tooth loss or more serious complications.

When Root Canal Treatment May Not Be Suitable

Although RCT treatment is highly effective, it may not be the best option in every case. For example, dentists may advise alternative treatments if:

• The tooth has broken beyond repair
• Advanced gum disease has loosened the tooth
• A vertical root fracture exists
• The tooth lacks enough structure to support a crown
• The patient cannot maintain proper oral hygiene

In such situations, other restorative or surgical dental options may be recommended.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Root Canal Treatment

Typically, dentists complete RCT treatment in 1 to 3 visits, depending on infection severity.

1. Create Access: The dentist opens the tooth to reach the infected pulp. (Local anesthesia is typically used, though it may not be required for non-vital teeth.)
2. Locate & Measure Canals: The dentist identifies the root canals and measures their working length.
3. Clean & Disinfect: The dentist cleans, shapes, and disinfects the canals using specialized instruments.
4. Place Temporary Filling: The dentist seals the tooth temporarily between visits.
5. Seal the Canals Permanently: The dentist fills and seals the canals to prevent reinfection.
6. Place a Crown: The dentist places a dental crown to strengthen and protect the treated tooth long-term.

Possible Complications of Root Canal Treatment

Although RCT treatment has a high success rate, some complications may occur. For instance:

• Patients may feel mild pain or tenderness after treatment
• Infection may persist if cleaning remains incomplete
• Instruments may fracture inside the canal
• Dentists may miss hidden canals
• Swelling or abscess may develop
• Teeth may fracture if crown placement is delayed
• Some cases may require retreatment or apical surgery

Nevertheless, regular dental follow-ups greatly reduce the risk of complications.

When to See a Dentist Immediately

Visit Jyoti Hospital, Gurugram if you experience:

• Persistent or severe tooth pain
• Swelling in the gums or face
• Sensitivity lasting more than a few days
• Discoloration or darkening of a tooth
• Pain while chewing
• Trauma or cracked tooth
• Signs of infection or pus

Early dental care helps save teeth and prevent complications.

In Summary

Root canal treatment is a safe, effective, and tooth-saving procedure that removes infection, relieves pain, and restores dental health. With proper crown placement and good oral hygiene, a root canal–treated tooth can last for many years or even a lifetime.

At Jyoti Hospital, Patel Nagar, Gurugram, our Dental team provides advanced root canal care using modern equipment, precision techniques, and patient-friendly approaches to preserve your natural smile.

Book Your Appointment

Book your appointment now at booking.jyotihospital.org or Call Now.

FAQs

1. Is RCT treatment painful?
   • Modern root canal treatment is usually painless thanks to effective anesthesia and advanced dental tools.
2. When is RCT treatment needed?
   • It is needed when tooth pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to decay, cracks, or trauma.
3. What happens during a RCT procedure?
   • The infected pulp is removed, canals are cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed — often followed by a crown.
4. How long does RCT recovery take?
   • Most patients return to normal activity within 1–2 days, with mild tenderness possible for a few days.
5. Can a RCT save a tooth?
   • Yes — root canals preserve natural teeth and prevent infection spread.
6. What happens if RCT treatment is delayed?
   • Delaying treatment may lead to abscess, bone damage, or tooth loss.

Suggested Reads For You

1. Cleveland Clinic — Root Canal Overview
2. American Association of Endodontists — Root Canal Basics
3. NHS — Root Canal Treatment Guide
4. Restorative Dentistry UK — Root Canal Success Rates