Are Root Canals Painful?

Concerned about potential pain from a root canal? Root canal therapy is designed to treat infected or damaged tooth pulp, effectively relieving pain and preventing the spread of infection. While myths about root canal pain persist, it’s important to separate fact from fiction and understand what this dental procedure involves. Read on to learn more about the truth behind root canal treatment, what you can realistically expect in terms of pain, and how the procedure can help restore your dental health.

5 Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal

In addition to tooth pain, dentists look for various other signs that may indicate the need for a root canal. They also take into account factors such as:

• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the gums
• Presence of a bump on the gums near the affected tooth
• Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks
• Advanced tooth decay
• Shifting or loose teeth
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
• Cracks or chips in the tooth
• Pain while chewing or biting down
• Intense or severe tooth pain

Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

Root canal therapy used to be feared because of pain concerns, but advances in anesthesia and dental technology have made it much more comfortable. Your dentist will numb the area with local anesthetic to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure.

Sedation options may be offered to help you feel more at ease during the procedure. Afterward, you might experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers.

This procedure not only provides a pain-free experience during the treatment but also addresses the pain caused by the tooth infection. By removing the infected or damaged pulp, which contains the nerves that transmit pain, the source of discomfort is eliminated. As a result, patients typically experience significant relief and improved comfort after the procedure.

Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Treatment

While root canal therapy is usually painless, some people still worry about it. However, avoiding the procedure can lead to more serious oral health problems. If an infection is not treated, it can spread, causing more pain and complications. It’s important to address dental issues early to prevent bigger problems later.

Neglecting an infected tooth can lead to the need for extraction, which is more invasive and costly. Root canal therapy, however, is a safe and effective way to treat tooth infections. Choosing a root canal helps preserve your tooth and prevents more serious issues down the line.

About the Practice

At Dental Impressions, our focus is on keeping your smile healthy and radiant. Led by Dr. Jose Aldana and Dr. Diana Vazquez, our skilled team in Mesquite offers a range of effective and comfortable treatments, including root canal therapy for addressing infected or damaged teeth. With four experienced dentists on staff, we are committed to achieving your smile goals using the latest techniques and technology to ensure safe and comfortable care. Whether you need prompt treatment for tooth sensitivity or want to schedule an appointment, contact Dental Impressions at (972) 288-3200 or visit our website.