The words “root canal” tend to cause an immediate reaction, usually fear. Many people assume it’s one of the most painful dental procedures out there. But what if everything you’ve heard about root canals is outdated, or just plain wrong?
Thanks to modern techniques, getting a root canal today is no more painful than getting a regular filling. The tools have changed, the healing time is quicker, and the outcomes are better than ever. In fact, root canals are designed to stop pain, not cause it.
Let’s clear up the biggest myths about root canals and explain what really happens before, during, and after the procedure.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
The truth: Most patients feel little to no pain during a modern root canal.
Historically, root canals had a negative reputation. But today, dentists use advanced local anesthetics and precise tools to make sure you're comfortable throughout the procedure. Most people say the process feels similar to getting a deep filling.
A root canal procedure is performed to alleviate pain from an infected or damaged tooth. So if you’re already in pain, the procedure is likely to bring relief, not more discomfort.
Myth #2: You’ll Be in Pain for Days After
The truth: Recovery is usually mild and manageable.
After a root canal, it’s normal to feel a bit sore or sensitive in the treated area for a day or two. But this usually fades quickly. Most people go back to work or school the very next day. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are often enough to manage any discomfort.
Severe or long-lasting pain is rare, and if it does happen, your dentist or endodontist will address it right away.
Myth #3: Root Canals Don’t Last
The truth: A well-executed root canal can preserve a tooth for many years, often even for a lifetime.
After removing the infection and sealing the tooth, a root canal can offer long-term stability. In most cases, your dentist will place a crown on the tooth afterward to protect it and restore its function.
Root canals have a very high success rate, especially when done by trained endodontists who specialise in this kind of care.
Myth #4: It’s Better Just to Pull the Tooth
The truth: Saving your natural tooth is almost always the better choice.
While removing a tooth might seem like the quicker fix, it creates long-term problems. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift, change how you bite and chew, and even affect your appearance. Replacing a lost tooth with a bridge or implant takes more time, effort, and money.
A root canal procedure allows you to retain your natural tooth and prevent future complications.
What Happens During a Root Canal
Understanding the procedure can help calm nerves. Here’s what generally occurs during a root canal procedure:
- Numbing: Your dentist applies a local anesthetic to keep you pain-free.
- Accessing the Tooth: A small opening is created in the tooth to access the infected area.
- Cleaning & Shaping: The infected tissue is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped.
- Sealing: The canals have been filled and sealed to prevent any future infections.
- Restoring: A temporary or permanent filling is placed. Most teeth also get a crown for complete protection.
The entire process usually takes one or two visits, depending on the case.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
If you’ve been putting off a root canal out of fear, remember that infection doesn’t go away on its own; it gets worse. Waiting can lead to:
- More pain
- A spreading infection
- Loss of the tooth
- Bigger, more expensive treatments later
A root canal doesn’t just relieve symptoms, it protects your entire mouth from further damage.
Final Thoughts
Root canals are not the nightmare procedure people make them out to be. With today’s technology and techniques, they’re fast, effective, and far less painful than living with an infected tooth.
So if your dentist recommends a root canal, don’t panic. It’s not a punishment, it’s a solution. And more importantly, it could be the reason you get to keep your natural tooth for years to come.
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