Multiple Visit RCT- Why do root canals take 2 visits?

Root canal treatment is a procedure done to remove the infected pulp and clean the tooth. The first question that comes to mind regarding RCT is the number of sittings required.  

It can be done in a single visit or multiple visits, depending on the condition of your tooth. Now you must be thinking, why do root canals take 2 visits?

Let’s delve into the indications for multi-visit RCT in the information provided below- brought to you by Advanced Dental Clinic

Why do root canals take 2 visits? -Indications of Multiple Sittings

Before we start the discussion, it should be noted that the decision about the number of sittings depends on various factors. A customised plan is formulated as per your clinical and radiological assessment done by our experts at Advanced Dental Clinic

Varied Root Canal Anatomy

The root canal anatomy of each human tooth is different. It is important to study the tooth’s anatomy radiographically and then decide the number of sittings. In complex anatomy cases, multiple visits are preferred to clean the canals adequately. 

Curved and Narrow Canals

The most common challenge faced is during the cleaning of curved and narrow canals. Back teeth, especially molars, have narrow and curved canals that need time for cleaning. It becomes difficult to clean all the canals in one visit; hence, multiple visits are required. The complete cleaning ensures total disinfection and eliminates the risk of recurrence of pain. Incomplete cleaning will affect the overall success of the procedure. 

Accessory canals

Apart from the main canals, some accessory canals and channels are present in some teeth. It can be diagnosed clinically and radiologically. Once we establish that the tooth has accessory canals, it becomes difficult to clean all these channels apart from the main canals in just one sitting. 

Advanced infection

When an advanced bacterial invasion leads to pus formation inside the tooth, keeping intracanal medicaments for complete cleaning becomes important. Attempting such cases in a single visit will lead to incomplete disinfection and pain in the near future. When a chronic infection leads to the spreading of the infection, it becomes essential to test the tooth for being completely asymptomatic for a few days before sealing it. 

Preventing Reinfection:

Thorough root canal treatment aims not only to address existing infections but also to prevent future complications. Multiple visits ensure all infected tissue is removed, canals are effectively disinfected, and a suitable temporary filling is placed. This staged approach reduces the likelihood of reinfection and enhances the long-term success of the root canal procedure.

Conclusion

The root canal’s complexity and the infection’s severity necessitate multiple visits for root canal treatment. We take extreme precautions in executing each step precisely for a successful outcome. If you want to know the number of sittings for your case, it is best to complete your examination. Multiple visit root canal treatments are done in the cases where there is more damage, and it requires time for proper healing.