Is it possible to avoid root canal treatment for acute pulpitis?

Acute pulpitis typically requires root canal treatment. If left untreated, it may lead to persistent pulp pain, affect the tooth root, and even worsen the pulp infection. Root canal treatment effectively removes harmful irritants around the apex by clearing necrotic materials from the root canal and performing proper disinfection and filling, thereby relieving pain. The general reference cost for this procedure is 100–800 yuan per tooth. Noticeable improvement is usually observed within one to two weeks, and the treatment effect may last for 5–10 years. Although alternative treatments such as oral medications, pulp drainage, apexification, and pulpotomy are also available, root canal treatment remains the first choice as it more effectively controls infection and reduces patient discomfort. Therefore, patients with acute pulpitis are advised to seek timely dental care and undergo root canal treatment under a dentist's guidance.