If you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot/cold, or gum swelling in South Delhi (East of Kailash), you may be wondering whether you need a Root Canal Treatment (RCT). A root canal is designed to save your natural tooth by removing infection from inside the tooth and sealing it properly—often helping you avoid an extraction.
This guide covers everything people usually search for: what RCT is, when it’s needed, step-by-step procedure, pain reality, time, cost factors, aftercare, and FAQs—written for fast SEO ranking and voice-search queries.
What Is Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue (called pulp) from inside the tooth. The dentist then cleans and disinfects the canals, fills them, and seals the tooth to prevent reinfection.
What RCT helps with:
- Stops toothache caused by deep infection
- Removes bacteria from inside the tooth
- Saves your natural tooth structure
- Helps restore chewing comfort (especially after final restoration)
When Do You Need an RCT? (Signs & Symptoms)
You may need a root canal if you have one or more of these symptoms—final confirmation happens after an exam and X-ray:
- Sharp or throbbing toothache (especially while chewing)
- Hot/cold sensitivity that lingers for long
- Gum swelling or a pimple-like bump near the tooth
- Pain that gets worse at night
- Tooth turning darker than others
- Bad taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath with pain
- A deep cavity, broken tooth, or pain under an old filling
Quick note: Not every tooth pain needs a root canal. Gum issues, cracks, sinus pressure, or bite problems can cause similar discomfort. Proper diagnosis matters.
Root Canal Procedure Step-by-Step (Simple Explanation)
Step 1 — Consultation + Dental X-ray
Your dentist checks the tooth, reviews symptoms, and confirms infection depth and canal anatomy using an X-ray.
Step 2 — Local Anesthesia (Pain Control)
RCT is typically done under local anesthesia, making it comfortable. You may feel pressure, but sharp pain is usually controlled.
Step 3 — Cleaning & Shaping of Canals
The tooth is opened, infected pulp is removed, and canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
Step 4 — Medication + Temporary Filling (If Required)
If infection is severe or there’s swelling, medication may be placed inside and the tooth temporarily sealed until the next visit.
Step 5 — Final Filling + Sealing
Canals are filled and sealed permanently. Your bite is checked to ensure comfort.
Step 6 — Final Restoration (Often a Crown)
Many teeth—especially molars—benefit from a crown after RCT to reduce fracture risk and restore strength.
Single-Sitting vs Multiple-Sitting Root Canal — Which Is Better?
Both approaches are normal. The “best” option depends on the tooth and infection level.
Single-sitting RCT may be suitable when:
- Infection is mild or controlled
- Canals are straightforward
- Tooth structure is stable
Multiple-sitting RCT is often better when:
- There’s swelling or abscess
- Infection is severe
- Canals are complex (often molars)
- The dentist needs medication dressings between visits
The safest plan is the one matched to your diagnosis—not a one-size-fits-all rule.
Does Root Canal Hurt? (Pain Reality vs Myths)
Reality: With modern anesthesia and proper technique, root canal treatment is often more comfortable than the toothache you’re already experiencing.
What you might feel after RCT:
- Mild soreness or sensitivity for 1–3 days
- Slight discomfort on biting (temporary inflammation around the root)
Common reasons for post-RCT discomfort:
- The tooth was heavily infected before treatment
- Surrounding tissues are healing
- Your bite needs a minor adjustment (filling/crown slightly high)
Call your dentist urgently if: pain increases, swelling returns, fever appears, or you feel a bad taste/pus.
How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take?
Time varies by tooth type and complexity.
Typical time range:
- Examination + X-ray: 15–30 minutes
- RCT appointment: 30–60+ minutes (case-dependent)
- Number of visits: 1–3 visits in many cases (complex cases may need more)
Molars generally take longer because they often have more canals.
Root Canal Cost in South Delhi (2026): What Affects the Price?
Exact costs can vary between clinics and cases. Most pricing depends on factors like:
- Tooth type: front teeth vs premolars vs molars
- Number and complexity of canals
- Severity of infection and need for additional visits/medication
- Technology and sterilization standards used during treatment
- Dentist expertise and complexity management
- Final restoration needs: filling vs crown (crowns add to total)
Smart tip: Don’t compare only by “lowest price.” Compare by diagnosis clarity, hygiene standards, treatment plan transparency, and restoration guidance.
Aftercare Tips (Do’s & Don’ts After RCT)
Do’s
- Eat soft foods for 24–48 hours
- Brush and floss normally, but gently around the treated tooth
- Take medicines only as advised and complete the course if prescribed
- Return for your follow-up and restoration visit
- If chewing feels uneven, get your bite checked promptly
Don’ts
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side until final restoration is done
- Avoid sticky foods (chewing gum, toffee) temporarily
- Don’t self-prescribe antibiotics
- Don’t delay the crown if your dentist recommends one
Why a Crown Is Often Recommended After a Root Canal
After RCT, the tooth may become more fragile—especially back teeth that handle heavy chewing.
A crown can help by:
- Protecting the tooth from cracks/fractures
- Restoring chewing strength and function
- Improving long-term success of the root canal
- Reducing the chance of reinfection from leakage
Molars and premolars commonly benefit from crowns.
Risks, Side Effects & Warning Signs
Most patients recover smoothly. Still, it’s useful to know what’s normal vs not.
Normal (short-term):
- Mild sensitivity
- Soreness while chewing
- Minor gum tenderness
Not normal—contact your dentist if you have:
- Swelling that grows
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication
- Fever or pus discharge
- Loose filling/crown
- Persistent bad taste or foul odor
- Bite feels “high” or sharp on closing teeth
Early follow-up can prevent bigger problems.
How to Choose the Right RCT Clinic in South Delhi (Checklist)
Before booking, check these essentials:
- Clear diagnosis with X-ray explanation
- Strong sterilization and hygiene protocols
- Transparent sitting plan and recovery guidance
- Clear restoration plan (filling/crown) with timeline
- Honest communication about expected discomfort and follow-ups
- Transparent pricing breakdown (no surprise add-ons)
FAQs
How many days does pain last after a root canal?
Most people feel mild soreness for 1–3 days. If pain increases or swelling returns, contact your dentist.
What can I eat after root canal treatment?
Soft foods are best for the first 24–48 hours. Avoid hard or sticky foods until the tooth is properly restored.
Do I always need a crown after RCT?
Not always, but many teeth—especially molars—benefit from crowns to prevent cracks and restore strength.
Can a root canal fail?
It’s uncommon, but it can happen if infection persists, the tooth cracks, or restoration is delayed. Proper sealing and timely restoration reduce risk.