Root canal therapy

a. What is root canal therapy?

When the decay in a tooth spreads deep inside and reaches the blood and nerve supply organ called "pulp" the person experiences severe pain, swelling or even pus discharge. Sometimes the dying pulp does not show any symptoms. The infected pulp is removed and filled with a suitable material and the tooth is protected with a crown or cap. It helps preserve the natural tooth and avoids unnecessary extraction.

b. Does it pain a lot?

No. We perform root canal therapy under Local anesthesia. The medication puts the tooth to sleep so that the procedure is comfortable and no pain is experienced.

c. Does it have any side effects?

No. Root canal therapy helps preserve the tooth structure in its original place. In order to get to the pulp significant amount of tooth structure is removed. This weakens the tooth and hence we must protect it with a crown or cap.

d. How long does it take?

It may take up to two sessions for the treatment of a tooth. After this the cap can be given within three days.

e. Is it not better I get my tooth pulled out?

Not all teeth can be root canal treated. The clinician is the best person to advice you on this. Pulling out a tooth creates an imbalance in the whole mouth and leads to a series of problems subsequently. So whenever possible, it is best to treat the tooth with a root canal treatment