THANKS TO OUTDATED myths and misconceptions, many of our patients are anxious ahead of a root canal appointment. As endodontists, we specialize in saving teeth and relieving pain. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from patients referred for root canal therapy.
What exactly is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure to save a tooth when the pulp inside becomes infected or inflamed. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it’s damaged by deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain or lead to abscesses. During treatment, we remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, then seal it to prevent future infection. This allows you to keep your natural tooth.
Do root canals hurt?
This is the biggest myth we encounter. Modern root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain, it relieves it. Most patients come to us already in significant discomfort from the infected tooth. We use local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. Many patients report that getting a root canal feels similar to having a filling placed. The relief from the original tooth pain is often immediate.
Why can’t I just have the tooth pulled instead?
While extraction might seem simpler, saving your natural tooth is almost always the better option. Your natural teeth help you chew efficiently, maintain proper bite alignment, and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting. Replacing an extracted tooth with an implant or bridge is typically more expensive and time-consuming than root canal therapy. Plus, nothing functions quite like your natural tooth.
How long does the procedure take?
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments, each lasting 60 to 90 minutes. The complexity of your tooth determines the timeline. Front teeth typically have one canal and are quicker to treat, while molars may have three or four canals and require more time. As specialists, we use advanced technology like surgical microscopes and digital imaging to work efficiently and precisely.
What happens after the root canal?
You may experience mild tenderness for a few days after treatment, easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients return to normal activities the next day. After your root canal, you’ll need to see your general dentist for a permanent crown or filling to protect the tooth. With proper care, a tooth that’s had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Will I need antibiotics?
Not necessarily. Root canal treatment removes the infection at its source by cleaning out the infected pulp. Antibiotics can’t penetrate inside the tooth to reach the infection, which is why the root canal itself is necessary. We prescribe antibiotics only when infection has spread beyond the tooth or in certain medical situations.
How successful are root canals?
Root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95%. As endodontists, we focus exclusively on these procedures and use specialized equipment that enhances precision and outcomes. When properly restored with a crown, root canal-treated teeth can function normally for decades. We understand dental anxiety is real, but we’re here to make your experience as comfortable as possible while saving your tooth.
