Last reviewed: September 2026
What is root canal treatment?
Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, a crack or trauma can allow bacteria to reach the pulp and cause inflammation or infection. Root canal treatment (RCT) removes this tissue, disinfects the canals and seals them, so the tooth can continue to function. At OGHA Dental we always explain whether a root canal is truly necessary and discuss alternatives, because keeping healthy tooth structure is central to our approach.
Who may need it?
- Persistent or severe toothache, especially at night
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling or a pimple-like bump on the gum
- A darkened tooth after injury
- Deep decay seen on an X-ray reaching the pulp
How the treatment works at OGHA Dental
- DiagnosisClinical tests and an X-ray confirm whether the pulp is affected.
- Anaesthesia & isolationThe tooth is numbed and isolated to keep it clean and dry.
- Cleaning & shapingInfected tissue is removed and the canals are cleaned and disinfected.
- SealingCanals are filled and sealed to prevent re-infection.
- RestorationA filling or crown restores strength and function.
How long it takes
Many root canals are completed in one or two visits of 60–90 minutes. Complex anatomy or severe infection may need additional visits.
Recovery & aftercare
Tenderness when biting for a few days is common. Avoid chewing hard foods on the tooth until the final restoration is placed.
Risks and limitations
Possible issues include post-operative soreness, instrument or anatomical challenges, and occasionally persistent infection requiring retreatment or extraction. Teeth without a protective crown are more prone to fracture.
What affects the cost?
Every treatment plan is individual. After your examination we provide a clear written estimate. Factors that influence cost include:
- Front tooth versus molar (number of canals)
- Single or multiple visits
- Retreatment of a previous root canal
- Crown material chosen afterwards
Why patients choose OGHA Dental in Gachibowli
Treatment is planned and overseen by Dr. Sandhya Goli, who practised in Boston for more than 25 years. We focus on accurate diagnosis, conservative options first and clear communication — so you understand exactly what is recommended and why. Our clinic is on Mindspace Road, convenient for patients from Gachibowli, Kondapur, Madhapur, HITEC City and the Financial District.
Learn more about our Gachibowli clinic.
When should you see a dentist? Book an appointment if you notice pain, swelling, bleeding, sensitivity or any change in your teeth or gums — early assessment usually means simpler treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is root canal treatment painful?
With modern local anaesthesia, root canal treatment usually feels similar to having a filling. Most of the pain people associate with root canals comes from the infection itself, and treatment is what relieves it. Mild tenderness for a few days afterwards is normal.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Common signs include lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, spontaneous or night-time toothache, pain on biting, gum swelling or a darkened tooth. Only a clinical examination and X-ray can confirm it, and some teeth with these signs can be treated more conservatively.
Can I avoid a root canal?
If decay is caught early, a filling may be enough. Once the pulp is irreversibly inflamed or infected, the options are usually root canal treatment or extraction. Keeping your natural tooth is generally preferred where possible.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Back teeth usually benefit from a crown because they take heavy chewing forces and become more brittle after treatment. Front teeth with little tooth loss may only need a filling.