A root canal procedure, while sounding daunting, is a straightforward process carried out by dental professionals to alleviate pain and save your natural tooth. Here is a step-by-step guide to what happens during this procedure:

1. Consultation & X-Ray: The process begins with a thorough examination, which usually includes X-rays to assess the shape of the root canals and to check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone.
2. Local Anaesthesia: Before the procedure starts, local anaesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring patient comfort throughout the treatment. Despite common misconceptions, a root canal is no more painful than a standard filling.
3. Pulp Removal: Once the area is numb, the dentist will place a small protective sheet called a dental dam around the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure. They will then drill an access hole into the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. Using special tools, the diseased or damaged pulp is removed carefully.
4. Cleaning & Shaping: After the pulp is removed, the dentist or endodontist will clean, enlarge, and shape the canals to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and properly shaped for filling. This step may also involve the use of antibacterial and antifungal solutions to kill any remaining bacteria and reduce the risk of further infection.
5. Filling The Canals: Once the canals are prepared, they are filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the canals.
6. Tooth Restoration: After the inside of your tooth has been treated, the outside will be restored to protect your tooth's underlying structures and give the tooth a full function. This usually involves a crown or filling.
7. Aftercare: After the procedure, some sensitivity may be experienced, which is normal and temporary. Your dentist will provide specific instructions for aftercare, which may include over-the-counter or prescription medications for pain management.

After undergoing a root canal treatment, proper care and attention are essential to ensure a speedy and smooth recovery. Here are some tips and guidelines for aftercare and recovery:

1. Pain Management: It is normal to experience some degree of discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area once the anesthesia wears off. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or prescribe stronger medication if necessary. Applying a cold compress to the area can also help manage any swelling or discomfort.
2. Dietary Adjustments: For the first few days following the procedure, it's recommended to avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the procedure was performed, especially if there is still some tenderness. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard, crunchy, or sticky that could potentially damage the treated tooth or dislodge the temporary filling.
3. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by continuing to brush and floss regularly. However, be gentle around the treated area to avoid irritation. Your dentist may recommend a medicated mouthwash to keep the area clean.
4. Avoiding Certain Habits: Habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can impede the healing process, so it's recommended to avoid these after your procedure.
5. Follow-Up Appointments: It's crucial to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments. Your dentist will need to check the treated tooth to ensure it's healing properly and to place a permanent crown or filling if necessary. These appointments are also a great opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have about your recovery.
6. Contact Your Dentist: If you experience severe pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, visible swelling inside or outside your mouth, an allergic reaction to medication (rash, hives, itching), or your bite feels uneven, contact your dentist immediately.

Root canal treatment is often recommended as the best way to save a tooth that has severe decay or infection in the pulp. However, there are alternatives, each with its own pros and cons. 

1. Tooth Extraction: If a tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved, extraction may be considered. This is usually the last resort, as preserving natural teeth is typically the best option for oral health. After extraction, the missing tooth can be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or denture to restore appearance and function. While extraction can relieve pain and infection, it's more time-consuming and costly in the long run, as tooth replacement involves multiple procedures.
2. Pulp Capping: In cases where the infection has not yet reached the pulp, a procedure known as pulp capping may be possible. This involves sealing off the pulp from the rest of the tooth in an attempt to encourage the tooth to produce more dentin and protect the pulp. This is a less invasive procedure than a root canal, but it's only suitable for certain cases and carries the risk that the infection could progress, necessitating a root canal or extraction later on.
3. Antibiotics: If the infection is limited and hasn't spread to the pulp, a dentist might prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. While this can buy some time, it is not a long-term solution and does not address the root cause of the infection. Overuse of antibiotics can also lead to resistant strains of bacteria.
4. Natural Remedies: Some people may prefer to explore natural remedies, such as oil pulling or herbal treatments. While these methods may help reduce symptoms or manage pain, they do not treat the underlying problem and are not recommended as a substitute for professional dental care.