Root Canals Aren’t Scary: What Really Happens During the Procedure

Few dental procedures have a worse reputation than root canals. But the reality? Most patients say it’s no worse than getting a filling.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure to save a tooth that’s badly infected or decayed. Instead of pulling the tooth, we remove the infected tissue inside, clean the canal, and seal it.

What Actually Happens

1. Numbing: We completely numb the area so you feel nothing
2. Access: A small opening is made in the top of the tooth
3. Cleaning: The infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned
4. Filling: The canals are filled with a special material
5. Crown: A crown is placed to protect the restored tooth

Does It Hurt?

With modern anesthesia and techniques, the procedure itself is virtually painless. In fact, a root canal relieves pain — the infection causing your toothache is what hurts.

Recovery

Most patients return to normal activities the next day. Some mild tenderness is normal for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

The Alternative?

Without a root canal, the tooth would need to be extracted. Replacing a missing tooth with an implant or bridge costs significantly more than a root canal.

Need a root canal? Don’t panic. At Greenspoint Dental, we’ll take great care of you. Call (281) 823-9987. Se habla español.