Does A Root Canal Hurt? Learn What To Expect From This Procedure!

There is quite a bit of misinformation out there about root canals. They have a bad reputation, partly due to popular culture depiction the procedure as lengthy, painful, and scary. The reason for this misconception is a tooth ache hurts, which is what we hear from other people, but the root canal gets you out of pain.

But this is not the case. In this article, we’ll break down the basics about the root canal procedure, and discuss how you can stay comfortable in the dentist’s chair during your root canal. Learn more now.

Root Canals Don’t Hurt – Understanding The Root Canal Process

Root canals are minimally-invasive. They do not hurt, and the process is quite comparable to having a tooth filled. Here’s what you can expect from the procedure.

1. Your tooth and gum will be numbed and cleaned.
2. The tooth needs to be isolated so it can remain sterile throughout the procedure.  Therefore the dentist will likely use a rubber dam or Isolite that separates the tooth from the rest of the mouth.
3. Your dentist will use a dental drill to remove damaged enamel from your tooth, and make a very small opening in the enamel.
4. A variety of special tools are used to scrape away the infected tooth pulp and root structure.
5. The tooth is disinfected using sodium hypochlorite, and cleaned.
6. Your tooth is filled with a rubbery substance called “gutta-percha”, which supports the remaining tooth structure.
7. Your tooth is capped with a temporary crown, or sealed with a filling. You may have to come back in several weeks for a permanent crown, depending on the specifics of your case.

That’s it. The entire process usually takes 1-2 hours at most, and most patients experience absolutely no discomfort. In the days following the procedure, you may experience some tooth sensitivity, but this is nothing to be concerned about. It’s minor, and will go away quickly.

Sedation Dentistry – Relax During Your Procedure

If you are still intimidated by the idea of having a root canal, there’s good news. You can be sedated with laughing gas (nitrous oxide), or by taking a pill before your procedure.

If you have dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, difficulty sitting still for a long period of time, or you’re afraid of needles (such as the numbing needle), sedation may be right for you.

Note that, while you can drive home after being sedated with nitrous, this is not the case if you opt for oral sedation – so make sure to make the appropriate travel arrangements!

Root Canals – Safe, Fast, And Effective Relief From The Pain Of A Toothache

Not only are root canals painless, they’re the best way to get relief from the discomfort of a toothache, caused by an infected tooth. If you think that you may need a root canal, don’t wait. Get the treatment that you need today.