You’ve probably heard stories or myths about root canals that might have made you anxious about this dental procedure. Words like “painful,” “unpleasant,” or “discomfort” might come to mind when thinking about root canals. In this blog, we’ll tackle the common question: Do root canals hurt? And provide the unfiltered truth about what to expect during a root canal procedure.
To start with the fundamentals, A root canal, often termed endodontic therapy, is a dental treatment carried out by an endodontist, a dentist specializing in this field, or a general dentist skilled in such procedures.
The truth is root canals have come a long way in terms of comfort and effectiveness:
The root canal procedure is typically painless thanks to modern anesthesia techniques and advancements in dentistry. You’ll be numbed in the area around the affected tooth, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the treatment.
During the procedure, you may feel some sensations, such as pressure or vibrations, but these should not be painful. Many patients describe these sensations as similar to having a filling placed.
Once the anesthetic effect diminishes, some tenderness or aching in the area of the treated tooth is normal. Over-the-counter painkillers can alleviate this, and it lessens in a matter of days.
Root canals are often necessary to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. The benefits of undergoing a root canal include:
Root canals are often performed to alleviate the severe pain caused by an infected tooth nerve.
A successful root canal can save your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and replacement.
Once the infection is removed and the tooth is sealed, it can function normally, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably.
The idea of excruciating pain during a root canal is more fiction than fact. Thanks to modern dentistry, you can expect a relatively pain-free experience during the procedure. Your dentist will ensure you are entirely comfortable and numb before starting.
At Dental Partners of Brookline, we understand that dental anxiety is real and are here to provide a comfortable and reassuring experience. If you need a root canal or have concerns about dental pain, do not hesitate not to contact us today. We’ll happily address your questions and ensure your oral health is well cared for.
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