Do Root Canals Hurt?

Hearing you need a root canal can sound intimidating, but the truth is, the procedure is a lot less scary than it used to be. Thanks to modern technology and improved techniques, root canals are relatively painless and often no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Let’s break down what you can expect.

Why Are Root Canals Necessary?

Root canals are designed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. When the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected, it can cause intense pain. The root canal procedure removes the damaged pulp, relieves the pain, and prevents further infection.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Before starting, your dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Some patients describe feeling pressure, but not pain, while the infected pulp is removed.

Here’s the step-by-step process:

Numbing the Area:

Local anesthesia ensures the procedure is pain-free.

Removing the Infected Pulp:

The dentist makes a small opening to access and remove the infected pulp.

Cleaning the Canal:

The tooth’s root canal is cleaned and shaped to remove bacteria.

Sealing the Tooth:

Once cleaned, the space is sealed to prevent further infection.

Will It Hurt After the Procedure?

Once the anesthesia wears off, you might feel some soreness, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Any discomfort is often far less than the pain you felt before the procedure. The soreness should subside within a few days.

Why Root Canals Aren’t as Painful as You Think

The idea that root canals are excruciating is a myth. With modern dentistry, Dr. Keith Neaville and his team at Neaville Family Dentistry in Searcy, AR, use advanced techniques to make the process as comfortable as possible. Most patients are relieved to find that the procedure was far easier than they expected.

If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or think you might need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact Neaville Family Dentistry. We’ll ensure your visit is as pain-free and stress-free as possible.

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Categorised in: Root Canal Therapy