A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from a tooth’s root to relieve pain and prevent further infection. This treatment is often surrounded by misconceptions. However, the reality is quite different from these myths. Root canals are a complex dental treatment, and many patients fear that the procedure will be painful. But is that the case? Continue reading as we explore whether root canal therapy hurts.
5 Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal
While tooth pain is a common symptom of needing root canal therapy, it’s not the only one that dentists watch out for. Your dentist will also consider other warning signs, such as:
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Pain when chewing or biting
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Severe tooth decay
- Intense tooth pain
- Shifting teeth
- A loose tooth
Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?
One of the biggest fears people have when it comes to undergoing root canal therapy is the fear of pain. However, with modern anesthesia and advanced dental technology, root canals are not nearly as bad as people believe.
Before the procedure, your dentist will numb the affected area using a local anesthetic. This means you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. In some cases, dentists may also use sedation to help patients relax during the treatment. It’s normal to experience some discomfort and sensitivity while healing, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or medication prescribed by your dentist.
Not only does the procedure not hurt, but it will also provide relief from the pain patients were feeling from their tooth infection. Your dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp, which contains nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. This removal of the pulp eliminates the source of the pain and allows patients to feel more comfortable after the procedure.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Treatment
While root canal therapy is generally not painful, some people may still feel hesitant to undergo the procedure. However, choosing not to get a root canal can lead to more serious oral health issues down the line. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the mouth, causing more pain and complications.
Ultimately, the affected tooth may even need to be extracted, which can be more invasive and costly than a root canal procedure. Since root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to treat tooth infections, it’s generally the better option for preserving your oral health and avoiding further complications.
About the Practice
Denton Dental Center provides top-notch root canal therapy services to help their patients preserve their natural teeth and maintain good oral health. Their skilled team of dental professionals uses advanced techniques and technology to ensure patients with tooth infections receive the safe, comfortable treatment they deserve. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity or want to set up an appointment with Denton Dental Center, visit their website or call their office at (940) 383-3300.