Does a root canal hurt? At Access Endodontics in Ellicott City, MD, under the expert guidance of Dr. Lina Jarboe and Dr. Burton Waxman, we understand the concerns and questions that come with dental procedures, especially regarding root canal therapy. One of the most common questions is, “Is a root canal painful?” Contact our knowledgeable team online or call 410.304.7226 today to dispel myths, provide clarity, and ensure you have all the information you need for a comfortable experience at our office. If you’re considering root canal therapy, schedule a consultation where your comfort and dental health are our top priorities.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure to save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. This treatment involves removing the damaged area of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting it, and then filling and sealing it. The purpose is to eliminate pain and restore the tooth’s health and functionality.
Who Needs a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity or pain to hot or cold temperatures
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
- A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums
You may assume that root canals are painful, but the truth is that with modern technology and anesthesia, the procedure should not cause any pain. A root canal can provide relief from the severe toothache pain you may be experiencing. How painful a root canal can be won’t compare to the discomfort you may suffer from delaying treatment.
How Do Endodontists Perform a Root Canal?
At Access Endodontics, Dr. Jarboe and Dr. Waxman utilize state-of-the-art laser-assisted procedures to perform root canals. Their approach usually follows the steps outlined below:
- Diagnosis – Utilizing advanced imaging to assess the extent of infection.
- Anesthesia – Applying local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience.
- Pulp removal – Removing the infected or inflamed pulp carefully.
- Cleaning and shaping – Thoroughly clean the canal and shape it for filling.
- Filling – Sealing the cleaned and shaped canal with a biocompatible material.
- Restoration – Placing a crown or filling for protection and to restore function.
Utilizing advanced laser-assisted technology, the procedure is swift, highly efficient, and remarkably precise. Incorporating modern techniques and a range of sedation options effectively minimizes any potential discomfort experienced during the process. As a result, most patients can comfortably return to their regular activities as early as the following day.
Are Root Canals Painful?
The perception that root canals are inherently painful is outdated, thanks to dental technology and anesthesia advancements. At Access Endodontics, Dr. Jarboe and Dr. Waxman prioritize patient comfort, using laser-assisted procedures that make the process quicker and significantly reduce discomfort.
Here’s what to anticipate: The procedure involves minimal discomfort as it is conducted under local anesthesia, ensuring it is nearly painless. Following the procedure, some individuals might encounter slight sensitivity or discomfort once the anesthesia diminishes, but this is usually controllable with over-the-counter pain medications. Additionally, for patients experiencing dental anxiety, there are sedation choices accessible to enhance comfort during the process.
Root canal aftercare instructions will be provided to each individual for speedy and uncomplicated healing. Following these instructions is essential not only for smoother recovery but also for preventing potential complications involving pain or the need for additional treatment.
Schedule a Consultation with Access Endodontics Today
Root canals have a reputation for being painful. Still, with the advancements in dental technology and the expertise of endodontists, the reality is quite the opposite. At Access Endodontics, we ensure that your root canal therapy is as comfortable and pain-free as possible. If you’re experiencing dental pain or have been advised to consider a root canal, don’t let fear hold you back. Contact our team online or call 410.304.7226 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.