Root Canal Treatment (RCT): Pain, Procedure Steps, Recovery & Myths

A root canal saves an infected or deeply decayed tooth so you can keep your natural bite and smile. This guide covers symptoms, step-by-step treatment, pain control, crowns, recovery, costs in Guwahati, Assam, and common myths.

What Is a Root Canal & When Do You Need It?

An RCT removes infected pulp from inside the tooth, disinfects the canals, and seals them to stop pain and prevent reinfection.

Signs You May Need RCT

• Spontaneous/throbbing toothache
• Sensitivity to hot/cold that lingers
• Swelling or pimple on gums (fistula)
• Deep decay, cracked tooth, trauma seen on X-ray/OPG

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

With local anesthesia and modern techniques, most patients feel pressure, not pain during treatment. Mild post-procedure soreness for 24–48 hours is common and manageable with prescribed pain relief. Call your dentist if pain/swelling worsens after two days.

The Procedure: Step by Step

1) Diagnosis & Anesthesia

• Clinical exam + X-ray; rubber dam isolation to keep the tooth dry and clean.

2) Access & Cleaning

• Tiny opening in the tooth; rotary NiTi instruments clean and shape canals; copious disinfection solutions used to kill bacteria.

3) Disinfection Enhancements (Case-Dependent)

• Sonic/ultrasonic activation; laser-assisted disinfection may be used in selected cases to improve bacterial reduction.

4) Obturation (Sealing)

• Canals are sealed with biocompatible material (e.g., gutta-percha) and sealer to prevent reinfection.

5) Temporary/Build-Up & Final Restoration

• A permanent crown is typically advised to protect the tooth from fractures.

Single-Visit RCT: Possible when infection is controlled and anatomy is straightforward. Complex infections or anatomy may need 2 visits.

Do I Need a Crown After RCT?

Yes, for most back teeth and many front teeth, a crown greatly reduces the risk of fracture.

Crown Options (Quick Compare)

Crown Type	Esthetics	Strength	Typical Use	Notes
Zirconia	High	High	Molars/premolars	Durable, tooth-colored
PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal)	Good	High	Back teeth	Balanced option
All-Ceramic (e.max)	Very high	Medium-High	Front teeth	Excellent translucency
Metal (Full Cast)	Low	Very High	Out-of-sight molars	Max strength, cost-effective

Your dentist will select based on bite forces, remaining tooth structure, and esthetics.

Recovery & Aftercare

First 48 Hours

• Mild soreness/swelling possible → use prescribed meds, cold compresses first 24 hours.
• Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until permanently restored.

Oral Care

• Gentle brushing/flossing; avoid sticky/hard foods until the crown is placed.
• Return for the final crown promptly to prevent cracks or leaks.

Red Flags (Call Us)

• Increasing pain/swelling after Day 2
• Fever, persistent pus or bad taste
• Lost temporary filling

RCT Myths vs Facts

• “RCT causes pain.” → Myth. It relieves the pain from infection; anesthesia controls procedure discomfort.
• “Extraction is better.” → Myth. Saving your natural tooth maintains jawbone and bite; implants/bridges are costlier replacements.
• “RCT takes many visits.” → Not always. Many cases finish in one visit; complex infections can need follow-ups.

Cost Factors in Guwahati

Fees vary by:

• Tooth type (front vs molar), number/curvature of canals
• Complexity of infection, need for medications between visits
• Use of laser activation or advanced tools
• Final crown material (separate fee)

Get a transparent estimate
Share your X-ray/OPG or book an in-clinic evaluation for an itemized quote.
Book RCT Consultation →

Why Choose Om Sai Dental Care for RCT?

• Gentle anesthesia and rubber-dam isolation for comfort and safety
• Rotary endodontics, digital X-rays; laser-assisted disinfection where indicated
• Transparent pricing and clear aftercare guidance