Tooth pain in the back region is often caused by deep cavities extending close to the pulp. If untreated, this can lead to severe infection, swelling, and even tooth loss. Thankfully, Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a reliable way to save such teeth while eliminating pain. Here’s a recent case from our clinic.
Patient’s Complaint
The patient reported to our clinic with:
- Pain in the lower left back tooth region
- Difficulty chewing on that side
Clinical Examination
On examination:
- Tooth 37 (lower left second molar) had a deep cavity.
- The decay extended close to the pulp chamber.
- A radiograph confirmed that the caries was near the pulp, making simple filling insufficient.
Diagnosis
- Deep dental caries in 37
- Symptomatic pulp involvement requiring Root Canal Therapy
Treatment Plan
The advised treatment included:
- Root Canal Treatment (RCT) in 37 – to eliminate infection and save the tooth.
- Full Coverage Crown – to protect the treated tooth from fracture and restore function.
Treatment Performed
Step 1: Root Canal Therapy
- Local anesthesia was administered to ensure a painless procedure.
- The decayed portion of the tooth was removed, and an access opening was made.
- The infected pulp tissue was cleaned and removed.
- The canals were shaped, disinfected, and filled with gutta-percha (a biocompatible material).
- A temporary restoration was placed to seal the tooth.
The RCT for tooth 37 was successfully completed, and the patient experienced immediate relief from pain.
Results After Treatment
- The tooth pain was resolved completely.
- The risk of further infection was eliminated.
- The natural tooth was preserved, restoring chewing efficiency.
Why a Crown After RCT is Essential
After a root canal, the tooth becomes weaker and more prone to fracture. Placing a crown (cap) is crucial because it:
- Protects the tooth from breakage.
- Restores chewing strength.
- Improves aesthetics when required.
- Ensures long-term success of the root canal.