Root Canal Basics: Why They’re Not as Scary as You Think
- Stephen Fabiano
- Feb 15
- 4 min read
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, your first instinct might be to panic. Maybe you’ve heard horror stories, or maybe you just don’t like the idea of a dentist poking around inside your tooth.
But here’s the thing...
Root canals have an undeserved bad reputation.
In reality, a root canal is a simple, routine procedure that relieves pain, not causes it. That’s right, this so-called "scary" treatment actually saves your tooth and gets rid of the real villain: infection.
Let’s break it down step by step so you can walk into your appointment feeling confident instead of terrified.
What is a Root Canal, Anyway?
A root canal (also called endodontic therapy) is a treatment that removes infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of your tooth. This pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, can become infected due to deep decay, cracks, or previous dental work.
Once the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned, sealed, and usually capped with a crown to protect it. Think of it as a deep clean for your tooth, followed by reinforcement to keep it strong.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal if you’re experiencing symptoms like:
Persistent tooth pain (especially deep inside the tooth or spreading to your jaw)
Sensitivity to hot or cold (that lingers even after the temperature is gone)
Swollen or tender gums
A pimple on your gums (yep, that can be a sign of infection)
A cracked or damaged tooth
Ignoring these signs can lead to serious infection, tooth loss, and even issues beyond your mouth. So, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's time to call your dentist before things get worse.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Despite what you may have heard, a root canal is not medieval torture. It’s actually a straightforward, relatively painless procedure.
Here’s what to expect:
1️⃣ Numbing Up – Your dentist will completely numb the area, so you won’t feel a thing. If you’ve ever had a filling, the numbing process is pretty much the same.
2️⃣ Creating Access – A small hole is made in the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
3️⃣ Cleaning & Disinfecting – The pulp is removed, and the inside of your tooth is cleaned and disinfected. This is the part that actually gets rid of the pain!
4️⃣ Filling & Sealing – The empty space is filled with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha) to prevent reinfection.
5️⃣ Restoring the Tooth – In most cases, you’ll need a crown to restore function and strength. This may happen at a follow-up appointment.
The whole thing usually takes one to two visits, and you’ll be back to chewing, smiling, and living pain-free in no time.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
Short answer? Nope.
Long answer? With modern anesthesia and techniques, getting a root canal feels about the same as getting a filling. The real pain comes before the procedure, when the tooth is infected. Once the root canal is done, that pain is gone.
You may have some mild soreness for a couple of days after, but nothing that over-the-counter pain relievers can’t handle.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
Most people feel back to normal within a day or two. Here are some quick tips for a smooth recovery:
✔️ Stick to soft foods for the first couple of days (mashed potatoes, yogurt, pasta).
✔️ Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is placed.
✔️ Take pain relievers as needed (ibuprofen and tylenol are great options).
✔️ Maintain good oral hygiene—brush, floss, and rinse as usual.
What Happens If You Delay a Root Canal?
Bad news: Tooth infections don’t heal on their own. Waiting too long can lead to:
🚨 Increased pain
🚨 A spread of infection to other teeth or even your jaw
🚨 Abscess formation (aka a pocket of pus—gross, right?)
🚨 Tooth loss
Simply put—if your dentist says you need a root canal, don’t wait. The sooner you get it treated, the less complicated (and painful) it will be.
FAQs About Root Canals
💡 How much does a root canal cost?
The cost varies based on the tooth being treated and how complex the case is. Generally, a molar root canal is pricier than a front tooth. However, it’s almost always cheaper than extracting the tooth and replacing it with a bridge or implant.
💡 Can I go back to work after a root canal?
Yes! You might feel a little numb for a few hours, but most people go back to work or school the same day.
💡 How can I avoid needing a root canal?
Easy: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly. Keeping up with your dental health prevents decay and keeps those pesky infections at bay. Regular checkups help your dentist identify decay early which may allow for the problem to be fixed with a filling instead of a root canal.
💡 Do I really need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases, yes. A crown strengthens the tooth and protects it from future damage. Think of it as a helmet for your tooth. Without a crown, the tooth is likely to fracture which could lead to the loss of the tooth all together.
Final Thoughts: Root Canals Aren’t the Enemy
A root canal doesn’t deserve its bad reputation. It’s not painful, not scary, and actually saves your tooth from much worse problems.
So, if you need a root canal in Amherst, NY, don’t stress. The procedure is routine, recovery is quick, and best of all—it puts an end to that annoying tooth pain.
Need to schedule a consultation? Call our office today and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.