About this treatment
A root canal is the treatment that lets you keep a tooth whose inner pulp has become infected or badly inflamed. Instead of removing the tooth, the dentist cleans out the damaged tissue, seals the space, and then protects the tooth with a filling or crown. At Pranjal Dental Clinic in Jagat Farm we explain each stage before we begin, so you always know what is happening.
When you may need it
- A toothache that lingers after hot or cold drinks
- Throbbing pain that disturbs your sleep
- Pain when you bite or press on the tooth
- A swelling or small pimple on the gum near one tooth
- A tooth that has turned darker than its neighbours
- Deep decay or a crack that reaches the inner part of the tooth
How treatment works
- Examination and X-rayWe listen to your symptoms, test the tooth and take an X-ray to see how far the infection has spread.
- NumbingThe area is made numb so the treatment itself is comfortable. Tell us at any point if you need a pause.
- Cleaning the canalsThe infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and shaped.
- SealingThe cleaned canals are filled and sealed so bacteria cannot return.
- Final protectionA filling or crown is placed. A root-treated tooth can become brittle, so this last step matters.
What it feels like. With proper numbing most patients feel pressure and vibration rather than pain. The pain people associate with root canals usually comes from the infection itself, and treatment is what relieves it. Depending on the tooth and the infection, treatment may take one visit or more; we will tell you which after the examination.
Aftercare and tips
- Mild tenderness for a few days is common; take any medicine only as advised by your dentist
- Avoid chewing hard food on that tooth until the final filling or crown is done
- Do not skip the crown or final restoration if we recommend one
- Brush gently twice a day and floss as usual
- Call us if swelling, fever or strong pain appears or returns
Common questions
Is a root canal painful?
The treatment is done under local anaesthesia, so you should feel pressure rather than pain. The toothache you came in with is usually what the treatment removes.
Will I need a crown afterwards?
Often yes, especially for back teeth that handle heavy chewing. Your dentist will advise based on how much healthy tooth remains.
Can I eat after the visit?
Wait until the numbness wears off, then eat soft food and chew on the opposite side until the tooth is fully restored.
This page gives general information and is not a substitute for an examination. Your dentist will advise what suits you.
Healthy teeth.