Introduction
Root canal treatment (RCT) is one of the most misunderstood dental procedures. Many patients fear it, but modern dentistry has made RCT painless and effective. If you have been told you need a root canal, this guide will help you understand the procedure, cost, and what to expect at Sree Anjaneya Institute of Dental Sciences (SAIDS) .
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic therapy) is necessary when the pulp—the central part within the tooth housing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues—becomes infected or inflamed. The procedure is performed to save a damaged or badly infected tooth instead of extracting it.
Root canal treatment is highly successful, with most treated teeth lasting a lifetime when properly restored and maintained. The treatment also relieves pain caused by infection or inflammation, and allows you to chew and bite normally.
Root Canal Procedure: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Diagnosis and X-rays – Your dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the location and depth of infection.
Step 2: Local Anesthesia – The tooth and surrounding area are numbed with local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience.
Step 3: Pulp Removal (Cleaning and Shaping) – The infected pulp is removed using small instruments. The canal is shaped for disinfection.
Step 4: Irrigation and Disinfection – The space is flushed repeatedly with antibacterial solutions to remove all infection-causing bacteria.
Step 5: Obturation (Filling the Canal) – A biocompatible material called gutta-percha fills the canals with a sealer paste for a tight seal.
Step 6: Restoration (Crown Placement) – A dental crown is placed to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
How many visits? Most root canals are completed in 1-2 visits. Complicated cases may need more.
Root Canal Treatment Cost in Kerala
At SAIDS Dental College, we offer affordable root canal treatment with expert endodontists.
ServicePrice (After Discount)Standard Root Canal Treatment₹1,100Single-Sitting Root Canal₹2,000Re-RCT (Retreatment)₹3,000Post & Core Restoration₹900+
Factors Affecting Cost:
- Tooth Anatomy: Single canals are easier than multi-curved canals
- Severity of Infection: Abscesses need more complex treatment
- Diagnostic Imaging: CBCT scans may be needed for complex cases
- Post-Treatment Restoration: Crowns add to the cost
Why Choose SAIDS for Root Canal Treatment?
- NDC-approved dental college (formerly DCI)
- KUHS affiliated with recognized degree
- Attached to MMC Hospital – one of the finest medical colleges in South India
- Expert endodontists with years of experience
- Modern rotary equipment and local anesthesia for painless treatment
- Affordable pricing starting from ₹1,100
- One-to-one mentoring for students ensuring quality care
The MMC Hospital Attachment Advantage
SAIDS is situated at the Malabar Medical College (MMC) Hospital Campus – a major advantage for dental education. Being one of the few dental colleges attached to a medical college in Kerala, our students and patients benefit from:
- Comprehensive understanding of oral-systemic health – Oral health is intimately connected to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more
- Better patient management – Recognising oral manifestations of systemic diseases
- Collaboration with medical professionals – Shared expertise and coordinated care
- Unmatched clinical exposure – Access to complex medical cases
Common Myths About Root Canal Treatment
Myth 1: Root canals are painful.
Fact: No. Local anesthesia ensures the procedure is comfortable and pain-free.
Myth 2: Extraction is better than root canal.
Fact: Saving your natural tooth is always better. Implants or bridges are more expensive.
Myth 3: Root canals cause illness.
Fact: This is an outdated myth. There is no scientific evidence linking RCT to systemic diseases.
Myth 4: A crown isn't necessary after RCT.
Fact: Yes, a dental crown is recommended post-treatment to protect the tooth from fractures.
Myth 5: Root canals don't last long.
Fact: With proper restoration and care, root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime.
Aftercare Tips for Root Canal Treatment
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the crown is placed
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
- Take prescribed medications as directed by your dentist
- Visit for follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing
- Get the crown placed as soon as possible to protect the tooth
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is a safe, effective, and painless procedure that saves your natural tooth. With modern technology and expert care at Sree Anjaneya Institute of Dental Sciences (SAIDS) , you can restore your smile with confidence. Don't let fear prevent you from getting the treatment you need.