Dr. Purvi Ankit Gohil
General Dentist
Bachelor of Dental Surgery of the Maharashtra
University of Health Sciences, Nashik, India (2003)
Speaks English, Hindi
Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure to treat infected or painful teeth by removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. Don’t ignore symptoms like toothache, swelling, or sensitivity—these could mean you need a root canal. Contact us today to save your tooth and restore your oral health!
Table of Contents
Our Root Canal Treatment Dentists
Dr. Ming Hon Chim
General Dentist
Bachelor of Dental Surgery of the University of Hong Kong (2013)
Speaks English, Cantonese, Mandarin
What is Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a common dental procedure that is performed to treat a tooth that has become infected or is causing pain. During the procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth and replaces it with a filling material. This helps to prevent further infection and save the tooth from extraction.
When is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?
RCT is needed when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to injury or deep decay that has reached the nerve. Delaying this treatment can increase the risk of the infection spreading to other teeth or even other parts of the body, leading to more extensive dental issues. RCT is needed when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to injury or deep decay that has reached the nerve. Delaying this treatment can increase the risk of the infection spreading to other teeth or even other parts of the body, leading to more extensive dental issues.
7 Common Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
A hole, chip, or crack in the tooth
Extreme pain that wakes you up at night
Significant toothache while chewing
Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the food/drink is removed
Dark or discolored tooth
Tender or swollen gums near the affected tooth
Swelling around the face and neck
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional dental care immediately.
Root Canal Treatment Process
Number of Visits: 2 – 3
Appointment Time Per Visit: 60 – 90 minutes
Recovery Period: NA
Step 1: Radiographs and Consultation
We begin with a detailed consultation, taking X-rays and digital scans of your teeth. These images help us understand the extent of the infection and plan your treatment accurately.
Step 2: Cleaning the Canals
Using a surgical microscope, our dentist carefully removes the infected pulp from the tooth and cleans the inside thoroughly. The entire procedure is shown on a screen, so you can understand the process clearly.
Step 3: Sealing the Tooth
After cleaning, we fill the canals with a biocompatible material to prevent future infection and seal the tooth.
Step 4: Final Restoration
A dental crown is highly recommended after a root canal to protect the treated tooth and restore its function. The crown acts as a shield, preventing further damage.
Pre- and Post-Treatment Care Instructions
Before Treatment
- Consultation: Attend your initial consultation to discuss your symptoms and treatment plan with your dentist.
- Dietary Preparation: Eat a light meal before your appointment, especially if sedation will be used.
- Medications: Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers as directed before the procedure.
After Treatment
Pain Management: Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended to manage discomfort after the treatment.
Dietary Restrictions: Stick to soft foods for a few days and avoid hard or sticky foods that may irritate the treated area.
Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss gently, avoiding the treated area, and consider using a saltwater rinse for soothing.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today!
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or believe you might need a root canal, don’t wait—contact us to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Question
Is RCT painful?
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and is virtually painless. You may experience some discomfort and sensitivity after the procedure, but this will subside quickly.
How long does RCT take?
The procedure can take one or two visits, depending on the severity of the infection.
What factors affect the cost of RCT?
Several factors affect the cost of RCT, such as the dentist’s experience, the complexity of the procedure. Two of our dentists use surgical microscopes to do RCT if the root canal structure is very narrow, curved or complex.
Do I need a crown after RCT?
A crown is highly recommended after RCT to protect and strengthen the tooth. A crown is a cap that is placed over the tooth to guard it from further damage like cracking or reinfection.
How can I take care of my teeth after RCT?
Proper post-RCT care, such as avoiding hard and sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and visiting the dentist regularly, is essential for the longevity of the crown and the overall health of your teeth.
What are the potential risks and complications of RCT?
Root canal treatment is a common and effective dental procedure, there are potential risk sand complications associated with it like discoloration, reinfection, tooth cracking, and other complications. However the benefits of RCT may far outweigh the potential risks. It depends on your oral conditions, so please consult our root canal dentists for getting professional dental advice.
With the right precautions and care, these risks can be minimized. It’s important to seek treatment from a qualified specialist, who has the experience and skills to mitigate these risks. So, while it is natural to be concerned, rest assured that the benefits of the procedure far outweigh the potential risks.
If you’re experiencing dental pain/toothache or suspect an infection, don’t hesitate to contact our clinic to schedule a dentist appointment with our skilled dentists. We will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs.