It is a dental procedure used to treat and save a tooth that is severely decayed with inflamed or infected dental pulp. It involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
Common signs include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums, or discoloration of the tooth. Your dentist can confirm after an examination.
Most root canals are completed in 1–3 visits. Each session typically lasts about 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity.
Yes mostly , a crown is recommended after a root canal to protect the tooth and restore its function, especially for back teeth (molars or premolars).
Advanced techniques and anesthesia have made root canal treatment mostly very comfortable. You may feel some discomfort during or after procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.
Avoid eating until numbing effect wears off. You can eat soft foods and but it’s important to avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a crown.
Infection inside tooth can get worse , leading to more pain, abscess formation, and sometimes even tooth loss.
The cost depends on multiple factors such as tooth's location (front or back), severity of damage, and whether a crown is required. Your dentist can provide accurate estimates.
With proper care and oral hygiene , a tooth treated with a root canal can last many years . Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are crucial.
Saving your natural tooth with a root canal helps to maintain your bite, prevents loss of bone and further avoids the need for implants or bridges.
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of root canal treatment. Check with your provider for details.
Like any other medical procedures, root canals can fail if the tooth gets re-infected, Fortunately percentage of failures is very small.
Yes, usually a root canal can be safely performed during pregnancy as emergency treatment. Inform your dentist, so necessary precautions are taken.
Yes, root canals are generally safe and have been used as treatment for decades with proven effectiveness in treating infection’s and saving teeth.
Yes, if required , a root canal can be performed by accessing the tooth through the crown.