Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know About Pain, Cost, and the Procedure

A bad toothache can be unbearable, especially if the tooth is infected. A root canal is one of the best ways to stop the pain, remove the infection, and save your natural tooth. Today, root canals are quick, safe, and surprisingly comfortable. If you have tooth pain, sensitivity, or swollen gums, this guide explains everything you need to know.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a treatment where the infected nerve (pulp) inside your tooth is removed. The dentist cleans the inside, shapes it, and seals it to prevent future infection.

Why it’s done:

• To eliminate severe tooth pain
• To stop an infection
• To save your natural tooth

Once the treatment is complete and a crown is placed, your tooth works and feels normal again.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Don’t wait—dental infections only get worse. You may need a root canal if:

• Constant toothache, especially at night
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swollen or tender gums
• Darkening of the tooth
• A pimple-like bump on the gums (with possible pus)
• Pain while chewing

What Happens During the Procedure?

Most patients are surprised by how easy it is. Root canals usually take 1–2 visits.

1. Check-up & X-ray: The dentist evaluates the tooth and root.
2. Numbing: Local anesthesia ensures you feel no pain.
3. Cleaning: The infected nerve is removed.
4. Shaping: The canals are shaped with precise tools.
5. Disinfecting: The inside is cleaned thoroughly.
6. Filling: The canals are sealed with gutta-percha.
7. Crown Placement: A crown restores strength and function.

Does It Hurt?

Thanks to modern anesthesia, a root canal should not hurt. Most patients actually feel relief as soon as the infected nerve is removed. Mild soreness for a day or two is normal and can be managed with painkillers.

Root Canal Cost in Pakistan

The cost depends on the tooth, infection severity, and crown type.

• Front tooth: Rs. 8,000 – 15,000
• Premolar: Rs. 10,000 – 18,000
• Molar: Rs. 15,000 – 25,000
• Crown: Rs. 12,000 – 35,000

Visit the clinic for an accurate estimate.

How Long Does It Last?

A well-done root canal can last 10–20 years or more.

To make it last:

• Always get a crown
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Avoid chewing hard things
• Have regular dental checkups

Why Choose Root Canal Instead of Extraction?

• Saves your natural tooth
• Relieves pain quickly
• Stops infection from spreading
• Restores chewing ability
• Cheaper than dental implants

Common Myths

• Myth: Root canals are painful.
  Truth: Modern RCT is painless.
• Myth: Tooth becomes weak.
  Truth: A crown fully restores strength.
• Myth: Better to pull the tooth.
  Truth: Missing teeth cause more long-term problems.

Why Choose Dr. Shouket Dental Clinic?

• Experienced and skilled dentist
• Painless and gentle treatment
• Advanced digital technology
• Accurate digital X-rays
• Clean and safe environment
• Quick pain relief

Aftercare Tips

• Avoid chewing on that side for 1–2 days
• Take prescribed medicine
• Get your crown on time
• Brush and floss daily
• Visit the dentist every 6 months