Root Canal Treatment FAQ
What is a root canal treatment (RCT)?
RCT is a procedure to remove infected or inflamed pulp (nerve) from inside the tooth, clean the canals, and seal them to save the tooth.
Why would I need a root canal?
You may need RCT if you have deep decay, a cracked tooth, repeated dental work, or infection reaching the tooth nerve.
What are the symptoms that indicate I might need RCT?
Severe toothache, pain while chewing, sensitivity to hot/cold, swelling, gum boil/pimple, or darkening of the tooth.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Modern RCT is usually comfortable because it’s done under local anesthesia. Most patients feel relief, not pain.
How long does a root canal take?
Typically 30–90 minutes, depending on the tooth and infection severity.
How many sittings are needed for RCT?
It can be single visit or 2–3 visits, depending on infection, swelling, and canal complexity.
What happens if I delay root canal treatment?
Infection can spread, causing swelling, abscess, bone loss, and may eventually require extraction.
Can RCT save a badly infected tooth?
In most cases yes, especially with timely treatment and proper sealing + crown support.
Is it better to extract the tooth instead of RCT?
Saving your natural tooth is usually best. Extraction may need implant/bridge later, which is more expensive and time-consuming.
What is done after RCT? Do I need a crown?
Often yes—especially for molars. A crown strengthens the tooth and reduces fracture risk.
How long does a root canal-treated tooth last?
With proper restoration (often crown) and good oral hygiene, it can last many years.
Can a root canal fail?
Rarely, but yes—due to missed canals, reinfection, cracks, or poor sealing. Retreatment is possible.
Is RCT safe during pregnancy?
Generally, yes especially in the 2nd trimester. Dentists take precautions and choose safe medications.
Can RCT be done for children?
For permanent teeth yes. For milk teeth, a similar procedure (pulp therapy) is often done.
Will I feel pain after root canal treatment?
Mild tenderness for 1–3 days is common and manageable with prescribed medication.
What is single visit root canal treatment?
It’s RCT completed in one appointment, including cleaning and sealing of the canals.
Who is a good candidate for single visit RCT?
Patients without active swelling/abscess, with manageable infection, and canals that can be fully cleaned in one sitting.
Is single visit RCT as successful as multiple visits?
In suitable cases, success rates are comparable when done with proper technique and sterilization.
When is multiple visit RCT recommended instead?
When there is swelling, pus discharge, severe infection, very complex canals, or need for intracanal medication.
Does single visit RCT reduce pain or swelling?
It can reduce overall discomfort by finishing faster, but infection level and case type decide outcomes.
How long does single sitting RCT take?
Usually 45–90 minutes, depending on tooth type (front tooth vs molar).
Can molar RCT be done in a single visit?
Yes, many molars can be treated in one visit, but it depends on canal complexity and infection.
Is single visit RCT more expensive?
Pricing varies by clinic; it may be similar or slightly higher due to advanced tools and chair-time.
What is painless root canal treatment?
It means RCT done with modern anesthesia and techniques to keep discomfort minimal during and after treatment.
How do dentists make RCT painless?
By using strong local anesthesia, advanced rotary instruments, apex locator, proper sterilization, and gentle technique.
Will the injection (anesthesia) hurt?
It’s a quick pinch. Many clinics use topical gel before injection to reduce discomfort.
What if anesthesia doesn’t work properly?
Dentists can give additional anesthesia or special techniques for “hot tooth” cases.
Is laser RCT painless and better?
Lasers can assist in disinfection, but the key factors are proper cleaning, shaping, and sealing of canals.
Can I go to work after RCT?
Yes, most people can resume normal routine the same day, with mild precautions.
What precautions should I take after painless RCT?
Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until permanent filling/crown is done; take medicines as advised; maintain oral hygiene.