Does a Root Canal Treatment Hurt?
When many people think of a root canal procedure, they imagine a painful and scary session in the dentist’s chair. However, this is far from the truth.
A root canal is a form of treatment for a tooth that has become damaged or infected on the inside. This can involve vessels, nerves and fibres. Leaving this issue untreated can lead to significant issues such as a spreading of the infection to other teeth or the bone below, or a need to remove the tooth entirely. Dealing with the problem is not something to delay.
If you have been told that you need a root canal or are wondering if you can ignore the developing ache in your mouth, you may be asking, “does a root canal hurt?” It’s a fair question. In this blog, we explore what is involved and whether the procedure causes pain.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
The root canal procedure has copped a bad name, but it is, in all honesty, a straightforward treatment that our dentists perform regularly. Firstly, the dentist administers a local anaesthetic to numb the area. They then make a small hole in the affected tooth, which allows them to remove the infected or damaged pulp within the tooth.
After clearing out the tooth, the dentist then rinses and cleans inside and then typically applies a temporary sealing option. You will then return another day when they will add a more permanent solution.
Will There be Pain During a Root Canal?
When a tooth becomes infected, it can cause significant pain, and this typically increases as the issue develops. That is why gaining an assessment from an experienced dentist as early as possible is often advantageous. Not only can treatment work towards avoiding further complications, but it can also help to relieve the pain relatively quickly. However, many people are nervous about undertaking such a procedure.
Prior to a root canal, you will be provided with a local anaesthetic. This means you will not be able to feel the area that the dentist is working on. Pain that some people may feel is related to the infection rather than the procedure. You will be aware of the dentist adjusting your mouth and tongue so that they can deal with the tooth and you will feel some pressure, but this will only be uncomfortable, not painful.
Will There be Pain After a Root Canal?
After the main part of the procedure, which is performed in the first of what is usually two appointments, the affected area will remain numb for an hour or so after you leave. As this wears off, you may be aware of mild to medium pain, which is typically not a constant discomfort. This occurs because of irritation to the area. The pain can typically be controlled with over-the-counter pain relief medication.
Most people find that their recovery after a root canal procedure takes just a few days, and that pain relief is not required for long. It is often a good idea to take it easy while you are healing, and there are steps to take to ensure your mouth heals well, such as maintaining good hygiene. Your dentist will advise you on the foods to eat to reduce the likelihood of causing pain or damage.
Can a Root Canal Fail?
A root canal, performed by an experienced and qualified dentist, usually involves a straightforward recovery period, if you follow your dentist’s directions regarding follow up care. Some cases are more complex and involved than others, however, a root canal is generally the best way to deal with an infected tooth, saving the tooth and avoiding further infection or complications.
It rarely happens, but occasionally the infection may not be entirely removed during the procedure. If you experience increasing pain and tenderness, swelling, tooth discoloration, bumps on your gums, or a high temperature, please contact us immediately and we will organise an appointment as quickly as possible.
You Are Well Cared For at Boroondara Family Dentist
The team at Boroondara Family Dentist understand that you will probably be feeling nervous about having a root canal procedure. If you are anticipating a painful procedure, the good news is that this treatment alleviates pain rather than causes it.
We are happy to answer any of your questions and will support you while you prepare for, undertake and recover from this procedure. If you are experiencing discomfort, please do not put off visiting a dentist. Contact us today to book an appointment.
