It’s normal to feel some trepidation if you’ve been experiencing awful tooth pain and your dentist said you need a root canal. You probably have plenty of questions about what’s involved. One of the most prominent questions patients have is whether or not it will hurt. You’re in so much pain already, how will you handle the sting of a root canal and recovery? Thankfully, the procedure alleviates more throbbing than it causes! If you’re wondering what to expect from your upcoming root canal, keep reading to learn more.
What Is A Root Canal?
Our teeth are hard and protected on the outside, but on the inside, they contain tender pulp full of blood vessels, nerves, and specialized cells. When we have a cavity or infection of the inner pulp of our tooth, it can cause both decay and a lot of throbbing for the patient! In these cases, a root canal is necessary to clear out the infection and alleviate the ache. Your dentist will gently make a hole into the tooth in order to extract the harmful bacterial growth, clean the area, and then fill and seal it up. In most cases, they may also fit your tooth with a crown to protect it from further injury.
Do Root Canal Procedures Hurt?
Although many people worry that root canals are a painful procedure, patients have reported that isn’t the case. In fact, many compared it to the same level of sensation as receiving a filling for a cavity. Regardless, your dentist will likely provide local anesthetic so the area is completely numb. If you’re still nervous, they might recommend sedation options so that you can feel calm and comfortable the whole time.
Is Recovery Long and Painful?
Contrary to what you may have heard, you can expect to recover from your root canal relatively quickly! There’s no lengthy recovery period involved. In fact, you probably can expect to be fully recovered in the next day or two. Many patients resume normal activities the day after.
You might have some general tenderness or discomfort immediately following your dental visit, but this is residual and should clear up quickly. If anything, you should finally have some relief from your toothache now that the infected pulp has been cleared away!
If you’ve been feeling antsy about your upcoming root canal, put your mind at ease. Your dentist knows that many patients worry and has likely completed the procedure countless times. You’re in the hands of an expert who wants to relieve your pain, not be the cause of it. Then, once it’s all completed, your mouth will be so much happier to be free of that achy infection!
About the Practice
Our dentists at Coombs, Ross, & Sourlis Family Dentistry have been helping patients achieve healthy smiles in the Rock Hill area for over 20 years. We strive to provide each person with state-of-the-art, customized care for long-lasting results. Dental emergencies are welcome, so you don’t have to wait if you have a toothache! If you are concerned and need an appointment, you are welcome to contact us on the website or call (803) 592-6201.