You Asked, We Answered: Are Root Canals Painful?

59%. According to a study conducted by the American Association of Endodontists, that’s how many people are scared of getting a root canal. If you’re one of them, then there’s a good chance that your fear stems from the idea that your time in the treatment chair will come with considerable pain and discomfort. But is the procedure actually as scary as its reputation? Read on to find out!

So, Do Root Canals Hurt?

No! In fact, root canals eliminate the infection and the pain stemming from it. Plus, the first step of the procedure is always the same: numbing your mouth thoroughly so you don’t feel any discomfort as your dentist works to restore the look, health, and function of your tooth. Even after they are done working, they will provide you with aftercare instructions, like rinsing periodically with warm saltwater, to help you heal comfortably.

What to Expect from the Treatment Process

As mentioned above, the first step of the treatment process is numbing your mouth. Then, once you’re ready to begin, your dentist will make a tiny hole in your tooth and remove the damaged particles. Next, they will sanitize the area, fill the tooth with a warm, rubbery substance, and secure a dental crown in place to protect it from harm moving forward.

An hour or two after you return home, the numbing agent will begin to wear off. At this point, you can start taking OTC pain medication to keep discomfort, soreness, and sensitivity at bay. It’s also a good idea to rinse with warm saltwater periodically as well as stick to soft foods and not chew on that side of your mouth.

My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt Anymore. Do I Still Need a Root Canal?

There’s a common misconception that – if your toothache goes away – you no longer need a root canal. That’s not the case. In fact, the opposite is true: you need to get the restorative care necessary quickly because the nerve has died, and there is only a small window of time where saving the tooth is possible.

Ultimately, if you have any questions pertaining to root canals – from what to expect during your time in the treatment chair to whether or not you really need one – the best thing to do is talk to your dentist! That way, they can provide you with the answers you’re looking for with your unique dental needs in mind.

About the Practice

Our team at Queen Creek Dental Care knows that getting the dental care you need isn’t always easy, especially if you have a fear of needles, you’ve had a bad experience with another dentist, or you struggle with dental-related anxiety. That’s why we go above and beyond to make the entire treatment process stress-free – from offering same-day appointments for patients in pain to welcoming several financial solutions. If you have a question for us about root canal treatment or you need to schedule your next visit, don’t hesitate to get in touch via our website or by phone at (480) 722-1200.