Assess
The tooth and surrounding area are examined to understand the problem and whether the tooth can be predictably restored.
When a tooth is infected or badly damaged, the first question is whether it can be saved. Root canal treatment is one way of treating the inside of the tooth while preserving the natural tooth where possible.
Tooth pain does not always mean you need a root canal. The cause needs to be identified first. Examination, your symptoms and appropriate dental findings help determine whether the pulp inside the tooth is inflamed or infected and what treatment is appropriate.
Deep decay, a cracked or damaged tooth, repeated dental work, or an infection around the tooth can affect the pulp and lead to the need for root canal treatment. Pain, lingering hot/cold sensitivity, pain on biting, swelling or an abscess can be warning signs β but symptoms vary.
The aim is to remove inflamed or infected tissue from inside the tooth, clean and disinfect the root canal system, then fill and seal it. The tooth is then restored so it can return to normal function.
The tooth and surrounding area are examined to understand the problem and whether the tooth can be predictably restored.
Local anaesthetic is used so the treatment can be carried out comfortably.
The infected or inflamed pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned, shaped, filled and sealed.
The tooth receives the appropriate final restoration. Depending on the tooth and remaining structure, this may include a crown.
These are the questions worth answering before you sit in the dental chair.
With local anaesthetic, you should not feel the treatment itself. It is normal for the area to feel sore or tender afterwards while it settles. The important point is that treatment is intended to remove the source of pain and infection, not add to it.
There is no honest single number for every tooth. Some cases can be completed in one or two appointments; others take longer because of the tooth, infection, anatomy or treatment complexity.
No. The final restoration depends on the tooth and how much sound tooth structure remains. A crown may be recommended where the tooth needs additional protection after root canal treatment.
A broken tooth is not automatically a lost tooth. The key questions are how much healthy structure remains, whether the root and supporting tissues are suitable, and whether the tooth can be restored reliably.
When a tooth can be predictably restored, preserving it can maintain normal chewing and the natural tooth structure. If it cannot be saved, replacement options can be discussed.
Root canal treatment varies with the tooth and the complexity of the case, and the final restoration can also affect the total. The right time to discuss cost is after the tooth has been assessed and the treatment plan is clear.
The tooth still needs to be restored and looked after. A temporary restoration may be used between appointments. The final restoration is selected according to the tooth and the amount of remaining structure. Follow-up care matters.
Severe or worsening pain, facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or difficulty breathing needs prompt dental or medical assessment. Do not rely on painkillers alone to manage a possible dental infection.
Madhav Dental Clinic is in Kalkaji, South Delhi. Dr. Priti's treatment approach is diagnosis-led and focused on preserving the natural tooth where appropriate. Specialist support is arranged when a case requires it.
Understand the cause before deciding on treatment.
Consider whether the natural tooth can be saved and restored predictably.
Know what needs to be done, why it is needed and what comes after.
Speak with the clinic and arrange an appointment with Dr. Priti.
For treatment cost or diagnosis, an in-person check is needed β this is for general questions.
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