Do Root Canals Hurt?

Almost always–no. The truth is that a root canal procedure relieves pain! Thanks to modern techniques, getting a root canal today involves minimal discomfort, often comparable to filling a cavity. If you’re especially nervous, let us know; IV sedation is available to help you feel relaxed and at ease.

Purpose of Root Canal Therapy

If you’re at the stage where you need a root canal, that means that an infection has reached deep inside your tooth to compromise your inner tooth pulp. Root canal therapy is the preferred solution to get a tooth back to good health instead of extracting it.

Keeping your natural teeth makes eating and speaking easier, helps prevent jawbone deterioration and shifting teeth, and is less expensive than replacing a missing tooth. Saving your natural teeth, if possible, is always the best option. While extractions may seem simpler, root canals can preserve your tooth’s structure, maintain your natural bite, and help avoid the additional procedures or expenses involved with tooth replacement.

What Exactly Is a Root Canal Procedure?

A severe tooth infection can often be painful, especially when chewing. A root canal involves carefully removing infected or inflamed pulp, which is often the source of tooth pain. Once this pulp is removed, we will clean, shape, and seal the canals to prevent further damage. This process relieves pain by eliminating the infection at its source. And your tooth will be preserved!

Modern root canal therapy is different from how it was back in the early days of dentistry. Now we have the convenience of technologically advanced tools, local anesthetic, and dental sedation to make the procedure vastly more comfortable for the patient. If you’re receiving root canal treatment from a reputable dental practice, like Blue Valley Smiles, the most you might feel throughout the procedure is some mild pressure.

TL;DR

Do root canals hurt?

Most people feel little to no pain during a root canal because your dentist numbs the area first. The discomfort you might experience is generally much less than the pain of an untreated infection.

How long does pain last after a root canal?

You may have mild soreness for a few days after the procedure, but it usually goes away quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers often help. If you have severe or lasting pain, call Blue Valley Smiles.

Does the numbing shot for a root canal hurt?

Most patients only feel a quick pinch when the numbing medicine is given. After that, the tooth and surrounding area feel numb, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the root canal.

What can I do if I’m anxious about root canal pain?

Tell our Overland Park dental team about your concerns. They can explain every step, use gentle techniques, and discuss options like calming aids or short breaks during the procedure. Feeling informed and supported often eases anxiety.

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Categorised in: Restorative Dental Care