Tooth pain in the back region is one of the most common reasons patients visit a dental clinic. Often, the cause is a deep cavity approaching the pulp. If not treated in time, such cavities can lead to infection, swelling, or even tooth loss. Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is the ideal solution to save the tooth and relieve pain. Here’s a real case from our clinic.
Patient’s Complaint
A patient came to our clinic with:
- Pain in the upper left back tooth region
- Difficulty in chewing on that side
Clinical Examination
- On examination, tooth 26 (upper left first molar) showed a deep cavity.
- The decay extended close to the pulp chamber.
- Radiographic evaluation confirmed that the caries was near the pulp, indicating the need for advanced treatment.
Diagnosis
- Deep dental caries in 26
- Symptomatic involvement of pulp (requiring root canal therapy)
Treatment Plan
The treatment advised for the patient was:
- Root Canal Treatment (RCT) in 26 – to remove infection and preserve the tooth.
- Full coverage crown after RCT – to protect the tooth from fracture and restore function.
Treatment Performed
Step 1: Root Canal Treatment
- Local anesthesia was given for a painless procedure.
- The decayed portion of the tooth was removed.
- Access opening was made, and infected pulp tissue was carefully cleaned.
- The root canals were shaped, disinfected, and filled with biocompatible material (gutta-percha).
- The cavity was sealed with a temporary restoration.
RCT in 26 was successfully completed, and the patient experienced immediate relief from pain.
Results After Treatment
- The tooth pain was eliminated.
- The infection risk was controlled.
- The tooth structure was preserved, ensuring the patient could chew comfortably again.
Why a Crown is Important After RCT
After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle. A crown (cap) is strongly recommended to:
- Protect the tooth from fracture.
- Restore proper chewing function.
- Provide a long-lasting solution with both strength and aesthetics.