— ROOT CANAL TREATMENT —
Root Canal Treatment (RCT): Common Concerns, Myths & What Patients in India Really Want to Know
By Dr. Spandana Sripada
MDS (Periodontology & Implantology),
AAID Associate Fellow
8 min read
Why Root Canal Treatment Is So Common in India
- High sugar consumption
- Irregular dental checkups
- Temporary relief through painkillers
- Fear of dental procedures
As a result, RCT becomes necessary not because it’s extreme, but because it’s timely and preventive.
The Biggest Concerns Patients Have About Root Canal Treatment
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Most patients experience:
- Mild pressure during treatment
- Significant relief from pain within 24–48 hours
Painful root canals are largely a thing of the past.
How Many Sittings Does a Root Canal Take?
This depends on the condition of the tooth.
- Simple cases may be completed in one sitting
- Infected or complex cases may require two to three sittings
The number of visits depends on:
- Severity of infection
- Tooth position (molars are more complex)
- Root anatomy
More sittings don’t mean something is wrong. They usually mean the dentist is ensuring thorough cleaning and proper healing.
What Does Root Canal Treatment Cost in India?
Cost is a valid concern.
Generally:
- Front teeth cost less
- Molars cost more due to complexity
- A crown is an additional but important step
The final cost varies based on:
- City and clinic location
- Technology used
- Dentist’s experience
- Type of crown material
Choosing treatment based only on the lowest price can often lead to retreatment later, which is more expensive and stressful.
Is a Crown Necessary After a Root Canal?
In most cases, yes especially for back teeth.
After RCT, teeth can become weaker over time. A crown:
- Protects the tooth from cracking
- Restores chewing function
- Increases the lifespan of the treated tooth
Think of it this way:
RCT removes the infection. The crown protects the tooth for the long term.
What Happens If You Avoid Root Canal Treatment?
Delaying or avoiding RCT doesn’t make the problem disappear.
It can lead to:
- Spread of infection to the jawbone
- Swelling or abscess formation
- Eventual tooth loss
- More expensive treatments like implants or bridges
Root canal treatment is not aggressive it’s a tooth-saving procedure.
Is Extraction Better Than RCT?
Extraction may seem simpler, but clinically:
- Natural teeth are always better than replacements
- RCT preserves chewing efficiency
- Tooth loss can lead to bite imbalance and bone loss
Modern dentistry focuses on saving teeth whenever possible, not removing them.
Root Canal Treatment (RCT): FAQs
Procedure FAQs
How is a root canal done step by step?
The infected nerve tissue is removed, the canals are cleaned and disinfected, and then sealed to prevent reinfection all under local anesthesia.
Are all nerves removed during a root canal?
Only the infected nerve inside the tooth is removed. Surrounding nerves remain unaffected.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
Most treatments are completed in 1–2 sittings. Severe infections may require up to 3 visits.
How much rest is needed after RCT?
No bed rest is required. Most people resume normal activities the same or next day.
Cost & Pricing
What is the total cost of a root canal?
It depends on the tooth involved, infection severity, and whether a crown is required.
How much does a crown cost after RCT?
Crown costs vary by material (metal, ceramic, zirconia). A crown is recommended for long-term success.
Root canal treatment isn’t something to fear it’s something to understand early.
When done on time, with the right technique, it relieves pain, saves your natural tooth, and prevents bigger dental problems later.
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, don’t wait for it to decide for you.
Book a Gum Health Consultation with Dr. Spandana
45 minutes. Honest assessment. No pressure.
