Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment, often simply referred to as a "root canal," is a dental procedure designed to save and repair a severely damaged or infected tooth. Root canal treatment is a common and relatively straightforward procedure that can provide relief from tooth pain and preserve your natural teeth.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed, infected, or damaged. During a root canal, the infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. This helps to eliminate infection, alleviate pain, and preserve the natural tooth.
When is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
Root canal treatment may be recommended in the following situations:
- Severe Tooth Decay: When decay penetrates deep into the tooth and reaches the pulp, it can cause infection and inflammation, leading to severe toothache and sensitivity.
- Dental Trauma: If a tooth is cracked, chipped, or fractured due to trauma or injury, the pulp may become damaged or exposed, leading to infection and pain.
- Infected Tooth Pulp: When the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected due to decay or trauma, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and abscess formation.
- Recurrent Dental Procedures: Sometimes, a tooth that has undergone multiple dental procedures may develop complications, leading to infection and the need for root canal treatment.
The Root Canal Treatment Process:
- Examination and Diagnosis:
Your dentist will examine your tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage and whether root canal treatment is necessary. - Local Anesthesia:
Before starting the procedure, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the treatment. - Access Opening:
Your dentist will create an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected or inflamed pulp. - Removal of Infected Pulp:
The infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth is removed using special instruments, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. - Shaping and Filling:
Once the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, it is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed to prevent recontamination. - Restoration:
After the root canal treatment is complete, a crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its shape, appearance, and function.
What is the cost of Root Canal Treatment in Chennai & Bangalore?
In Chennai & Bangalore, the cost of root canal treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the dental clinic, the tooth that requires treatment, and the complexity of the procedure.
On average, the cost of a single-root canal treatment in Chennai & Bangalore averages around ₹6000-₹8000 & charged higher for complex procedures.
Root Canal Treatment at Core Dental Care starts at ₹3,999 for a single root canal treatment (Note: Complex cases requiring additional attention may vary prices).
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FAQ
1. Is root canal treatment painful?
Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment is not painful. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the treatment. Some mild discomfort or soreness may occur after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
2. How long does root canal treatment take?
The length of the root canal treatment procedure can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth. In most cases, root canal treatment can be completed in one or two appointments, each lasting approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
3. Are there any risks associated with root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. However, like any dental procedure, there are some risks associated with root canal treatment, such as incomplete removal of infected tissue, instrument fracture, or reinfection of the tooth. Your dentist will discuss these risks with you before starting the procedure.
4. What happens if I don't get a root canal?
If you have a severely damaged or infected tooth and choose not to undergo root canal treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding teeth, gums, and jawbone, leading to more extensive dental problems and potential tooth loss. In severe cases, untreated dental infections can even spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health complications.
5. Can a tooth that has had a root canal treatment get infected again?
While root canal treatment is highly successful, there is a small chance that a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may become reinfected in the future. This can happen if bacteria find their way back into the tooth through new decay, cracks, or fractures. If this occurs, the tooth may need to be retreated with root canal therapy or, in some cases, extracted.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure that can save and repair severely damaged or infected teeth. If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, don’t delay seeking treatment. Schedule an appointment with Core Dental Care to determine if root canal treatment is the right option for you. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime, allowing you to enjoy a healthy and pain-free smile.