2 October 2024

Do Root Canals Hurt? What You Need to Know

Dr. Sara Makary

Root canals were frequently misinterpreted as painful dental treatments. Root canal procedures have become more pleasant and efficient thanks to recent developments in dentistry. In Jacksonville’s Northpoint Dental Clinic with Dr. Sara Makary, you can expect warm and considerate service to guarantee your root canal treatment is easy and pain-free.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal treatment helps resolve infection or swelling inside the tooth pulp which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp is affected by decay or trauma it may result in severe pain and infection. Without proper care the infection can expand and lead to tooth loss or the occurrence of abscesses.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Many people believe that root canals hurt. Root canals are created to ease the pain associated with infected or damaged teeth. Modern dental methods alongside local anesthesia make the process nearly free of pain.

To provide comfort to patients at Northpoint Dental during their visit Dr. Sara Makary employs modern numbing techniques. You might experience mild pressure while undergoing the treatment; however pain does not require concern.

Following a root canal procedure you may feel minor pain or tenderness for several days. This often arises from the healing process and can be eased with pain relievers available without a prescription. Contact Dr. Makary for a follow-up evaluation if discomfort lasts longer than a week.

Below are common symptoms that may indicate you need root canal treatment:

Tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures
Severe pain while biting or chewing
Bumps or pimple-like abscesses on the gums
Darkening of the gums or signs of deep decay
Tender or swollen gums
A cracked or chipped tooth
An abscessed tooth

What to Expect During the Procedure

A root canal is a relatively straightforward procedure that can usually be completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the case. Here’s what you can expect during your root canal at Northpoint Dental:

Consultation and X-rays: Dr. Makary will first examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection or damage. This will help guide the treatment plan and ensure that the root canal is necessary.
Anesthesia: Before the procedure begins, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the treatment.
Pulp Removal: Dr. Makary will create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp. The pulp is then carefully removed using specialized instruments, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Filling and Sealing: Once the pulp is removed and the tooth is cleaned, the empty space is filled with a biocompatible material to restore its strength. The tooth is then sealed to prevent future infections.
Final Restoration: In most cases, a crown or filling will be placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its full function. Dr. Makary will ensure that the restoration blends seamlessly with your natural teeth for a beautiful, durable result.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following a root canal procedure it is common to have some discomfort or tenderness in the treated spot. The presence of inflammation beforehand is usually the cause rather than the root canal operation itself. Ibuprofen and similar medicines may reduce soreness. After the procedure patients report that their previous pain reduces quickly and they can get back to their routine.

Dr. Makary will deliver precise recovery suggestions to support an easy recovery. Keeping your teeth clean with regular brushing and flossing will defend your treated tooth and lessen the risk of infections.

Can Root Canals Save Your Tooth?

Root canals often represent the essential approach to protect a tooth that might otherwise face extraction due to injury or infection. Root canals cleanse the tooth of infection and secure it to restore its health and function avoiding the need for extensive therapies such as extractions or implants.

Get the Relief You Need at Northpoint Dental

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or signs of infection, don’t delay in seeking treatment. Dr. Sara Makary is committed to providing high-quality, pain-free root canal treatments to save your teeth and alleviate the discomfort caused by infection or decay.