Do Root Canals Hurt? Discover the Truth

Chances are, you need a root canal because your mouth hurts. And while you’re likely looking forward to the procedure that will end your pain, you’re probably also feeling some anxiety about the procedure itself. After all, the saying “I’d rather have a root canal” became commonplace for a reason, right? 

While people often equate “root canal” with “pain,” the purpose of the root canal procedure is actually to relieve your pain, as well as save your tooth and safeguard you from future infection. Still, no one wishes for a root canal. But the idea that they are deeply painful is a little more than a myth. 

From answering some of the most frequently asked questions to explaining how your dentist will keep you as pain-free as possible during your procedure, the experts tell all.

Why Do I Feel Pain Before Root Canal Treatment?

People need root canals for a variety of reasons. Infection and inflammation can develop when there’s a deep cavity, problems with a previous filling, or an injury (such as a cracked tooth). And these issues can make your teeth hurt, especially when the pain spreads to your other teeth, jaw, or face. You may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold, to the touch, or when biting or chewing.

Do Root Canal Tests Hurt?

You may need a root canal to remove bacteria (and ultimately save your tooth) if your tooth’s pulp becomes inflamed or infected. Before your root canal, your dentist will perform several tests that should be painless (or only mildly uncomfortable), including: 

• • Electric Pulp Test: This test sends a small electrical current through the tooth. Only healthy teeth will feel a slight tingling during this test while an infected, inflamed, or dead tooth will feel nothing.
  • Sensitivity Test: Your dentist may check for sensitivity by gently tapping on the tooth or subjecting it to cold spray.
  • Visual Exam: Your dentist will look for signs of swelling.
  • X-Ray: This pain-free imaging process helps the dentist better understand what’s happening inside your tooth. You will need a root canal if the X-ray shows the pulp is infected, inflamed, or dead.

How Is a Root Canal Performed and What Will I Feel?

If you’ve ever had a cavity filled, you can expect a similar experience when having a root canal. Your dentist will first apply some topical numbing cream to the area and then inject medication into the surrounding tissue to ensure you don’t feel anything during the procedure. Usually, people don’t even feel the injection because of the numbing cream. But those who do describe the feeling as a pinch.

When the procedure starts, you may feel some movement, pressure, and vibration. These sensations can be noticeable but aren’t painful, thanks to the anesthesia. 

What Can I Expect for Recovery?

Once the root canal is over and the anesthesia begins to wear off, you may experience discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days.

Do You Have a Sensitive Tooth?

At Perry Smiles, we prioritize your comfort when testing teeth for pulp inflammation or infection, and during any needed treatment. It’s always our goal to make you feel safe, comfortable and well cared for. Call us to schedule a consultation today.