What is RCT(Root Canal Treatment)? Why RCT is important?

Basically, there are three layers of a tooth- Enamel(the outermost layer) , Dentin(the middle layer) and Pulp(the nerve of the tooth). When a cavity has already involved the pulp i.e. the nerve and the patient has started facing irreversible symptoms specially pain on lying back at night, difficulty in chewing food from that particular side and sensitivity to hot and cold beverages which lingers even after removal of stimulus, then restoration (filling) cannot be performed and RCT is the ultimate treatment plan. In these cases, if RCT is not performed at the earliest, then the cavity may extend to more deeper layers and cause root caries. Root caries calls for extraction of the tooth. So if you want to save the tooth and if you have started facing mild to moderate symptoms as mentioned above, then don’t think twice and believe in us.

RCT refers to the treatment where the infected nerve of the tooth is extirpated and instead the canal is sealed using an inert and biocompatible material known as gutta percha with the help of bioceramic sealer. The canal is sealed in such a way that there is no void present through which any bacteria or microorganisms can invade. After the treatment is completed, a crown or biomimetic restoration is provided which gives protection to the tooth. This step is also extremely important, otherwise the tooth may break without any protection.

RCT along with a prosthesis needs 3-4 sittings, each sitting being of 1.5-2 hrs. Failures can occur if the gum is weak or has already started receding or the tooth has already started moving to a marked extent. Also if the tooth has fractured due to chewing of very hard substance. In these cases, we suggest tooth extraction. And extraction is also suggested if the patient is uncontrolled diabetic or is under an oral habit which results in his very poor oral hygiene.