Root Canal Treatment: What Really Happens, Step by Step
Inside every tooth is a soft core of nerve and blood vessels called the pulp. When deep decay, a crack or trauma lets bacteria reach the pulp, it becomes inflamed or infected — and that is the throbbing, keeps-you-awake toothache most people recognise. A root canal removes the infected pulp, disinfects the canals and seals them, letting you keep the natural tooth instead of extracting it.
Signs you may need a root canal
Do not wait for the pain to become unbearable. Come in early if you notice any of the following.
- Lingering pain after hot or cold food and drink
- Sharp pain when biting or applying pressure
- A darkening or greyish tooth
- Swelling or a small pimple-like bump on the gum
- Pain that wakes you at night or spreads to the jaw and ear
What happens during the treatment
The tooth is numbed and isolated with a rubber dam. A small opening is made in the crown, the infected pulp is removed, and the canals are shaped, cleaned and irrigated. They are then filled with a biocompatible material and sealed.
Many uncomplicated cases can be finished in a single sitting. Teeth with severe infection or curved canals may need two visits with a medicated dressing in between.
Does it hurt?
Modern anaesthesia and rotary instruments make the procedure comparable to having a filling. Most patients report that the relief from the original toothache is immediate. Mild soreness for two to three days afterwards is normal.
Why a crown after RCT is not optional
A treated tooth is more brittle because its blood supply is gone and structure has been removed. A ceramic or zirconia crown redistributes chewing force and prevents the tooth from fracturing. Skipping the crown is the most common reason a root-canal-treated tooth fails.
Root canal or extraction?
Keeping your natural tooth preserves the bone and keeps the neighbouring teeth from drifting. Extraction is faster but usually leads to an implant or bridge later, which costs more overall. We only recommend removal when the tooth is fractured below the gum or cannot be restored.
Frequently asked questions
How many visits does a root canal take?
Often one sitting for straightforward cases; two visits when there is active infection or complex canal anatomy.
Can I go to work the same day?
Yes. The numbness wears off in a few hours; avoid chewing on that side until it does.
Will the tooth look different?
The final crown is shade-matched to your neighbouring teeth, so it blends in.
Book a consultation in Perumbakkam
PM Dental Care, Mettu St, Perumbakkam, Chennai 600100. Open Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 9 pm.
Call 072002 40570