Root Canal: Does It Hurt? What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Let’s be honest—when people hear the words “root canal,” the first thing that often comes to mind is pain. But the truth is, a root canal is not nearly as uncomfortable as many people think. Thanks to modern dental technology, it’s a routine procedure that can actually relieve pain rather than cause it! If you’re feeling nervous about an upcoming root canal or just want to understand the process better, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what you can expect, from start to finish, during and after the procedure.

What Is a Root Canal, Anyway?

A root canal is a procedure to treat infection or damage inside the tooth. When the soft tissue (known as the pulp) inside your tooth gets infected or inflamed, it can cause a lot of discomfort. The goal of a root canal is to remove the damaged pulp, clean out the infection, and seal the tooth, so you don’t experience further pain or problems down the road. 

In a nutshell, a root canal is all about saving your tooth and getting rid of pain—not adding to it.

Does a Root Canal Hurt During the Procedure?

In short—no, it shouldn’t. Here’s why: before the procedure begins, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. This makes sure you won’t feel any sharp pain while the procedure is happening. You might feel a bit of pressure or some mild discomfort, but it’s nothing like the horror stories you might have heard. In fact, many patients compare a root canal to getting a routine filling.

What if I’m still anxious about pain?

If you’re someone who’s especially nervous about dental work, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist about sedation options. There are options like laughing gas (nitrous oxide) or even oral sedation that can help you relax during the procedure.

1. What Happens During the Procedure?

A root canal is usually completed in one or two visits, depending on how complex the issue is. Here’s a general overview of what happens: 

2. Numbing the Area

As mentioned, you’ll receive a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure.

3. Cleaning the Tooth

Once you’re numb, the dentist will create a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp. They’ll carefully remove the infected or damaged tissue and then clean the inside of the tooth to get rid of any bacteria or debris.

4. Filling the Tooth

After the cleaning, the dentist will fill the now-empty space inside the tooth with a special material to seal and protect it. In most cases, you’ll also need a crown to cover the tooth and give it extra strength.

That’s it! Once the procedure is done, you’re on your way to a healthier, pain-free tooth.

What About After the Root Canal? Will It Hurt Then?

After the numbness wears off, it’s completely normal to feel some tenderness around the treated area. This is because your body is healing and the surrounding tissues might be a bit inflamed. Here’s what to expect: 

• Mild Discomfort: You might experience some soreness for a few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol usually do the trick to manage this discomfort.
• Sensitivity: The treated tooth may feel a little sensitive, especially if you had a lot of infection or inflammation before the root canal. This sensitivity should fade over the course of a few days to a week.
• Eating and Chewing: It’s best to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until you get a permanent crown placed. This will help prevent any damage while the tooth heals.

If you notice swelling, severe pain, or pressure that doesn’t go away after a few days, it’s important to contact your dentist. These symptoms could be a sign that something needs further attention. 

Can I Drive After a Root Canal?

Yes, in most cases, you can drive yourself home after a root canal procedure. If your dentist uses only local anesthesia, which is the most common practice, you should be fully capable of driving as the anesthetic only affects the treated area. However, if you’ve opted for sedation, such as oral sedation or nitrous oxide, it’s best to arrange for someone to drive you home.

Sedation can leave you feeling drowsy or less alert, which may impair your ability to drive safely. Always follow your dentist’s post-procedure instructions regarding driving and ensure you feel alert before getting behind the wheel. If in doubt, play it safe and have someone accompany you to your appointment.

How long does a root canal take​?

A root canal typically takes 60 to 90 minutes per session, depending on the complexity of the case. If the tooth is heavily infected or has multiple canals, the procedure might require two visits.

During the first visit, your dentist will clean and shape the canals, remove the infection, and place a temporary filling. If a second visit is needed, it will usually involve sealing the tooth and placing a crown.

For straightforward cases, many root canals are completed in a single appointment, saving you time while ensuring effective treatment.

Why a Root Canal Is Worth It

The goal of a root canal is to save your natural tooth. While the procedure may seem intimidating at first, it’s designed to stop the pain caused by infection, not create more of it. Plus, it allows you to keep your original tooth, which is always the best outcome for your long-term dental health.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Follow your dentist’s instructions: Whether it’s advice on medication, diet, or care, following post-procedure guidelines will help you recover more smoothly. 
• Stay gentle on the treated tooth: Avoid eating hard or sticky foods until your tooth is fully restored with a crown. 
• Good oral hygiene: Keep brushing and flossing as usual, but be gentle around the treated area. It’s important to keep your mouth clean during the healing process. 

Final Thoughts

So, does a root canal hurt? With modern dental techniques, the answer is typically no. The procedure itself is designed to relieve the pain caused by an infected or damaged tooth. While you may feel some mild discomfort afterward, this is usually manageable and short-lived. 

At Carlton Dental Care, we’re here to make sure you’re comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. If you have any concerns or questions about an upcoming root canal, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to help you feel at ease and ensure your treatment experience is a positive one.