Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

When your dentist tells you that you need root canal therapy, you may feel overwhelmed with dread. You’ve heard that root canals are painful. Is this your only option to save your tooth? The truth is that you shouldn’t be worried about your procedure. With modern dental technology and anesthetics, you don’t need to be afraid. Continue reading to learn more from your dentist about what you can expect for your root canal therapy.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

This is a common procedure that saves millions of infected teeth every single year! During this treatment, your dentist will create an opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp and nerve at the center. Afterward, they will clean, fill, and seal the tooth to prevent future infection. This prevents the infection from spreading to other areas in the mouth and causing more serious, painful issues. It is also necessary to save the tooth. Otherwise, an extraction would likely have to take place. After root canal therapy, your dentist will likely opt to place a crown to protect your tooth from further damage. This way, your tooth can stay safe and healthy for many years down the road.

How Painful Is Root Canal Therapy?

Needing a root canal is much more painful than the procedure itself. In fact, root canals will actually relieve the pain that you’re feeling as a result of your infected or abscessed tooth. During the actual procedure, you shouldn’t feel any pain because your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. Ultimately, it should feel similar to getting a large dental filling. It is possible to experience some soreness or sensitivity for a few days following your treatment, but by using over-the-counter pain relievers, you can manage this sensitivity.

What Are the Signs That I May Need a Root Canal?

Roots canals are very common, and there are a variety of signs that could indicate that you may need one. Here are some symptoms of infected and abscessed teeth:

• Lingering tooth sensitivity
• Sharp pain when chewing or biting
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Pimple-like bump on the gums
• Deep tooth decay
• Darkened gums
• Swollen or painful gums

You don’t need to dread your root canal. With modern dental technology, you will have your smile restored in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Xinxing Liu earned her dental doctorate from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine and has practiced family dentistry in the Dallas area for many years. If you think that you may need root canal therapy, she would be happy to help. For more information on the treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (469) 210-7223.