One of the biggest causes of concern relating to dentistry is root canals. Due to sensationalist media, popular culture and myths, many people feel that they will have an agonizing time in the dentist. However with advances in dental technology, diagnostics  the whole process is pain-free thanks to modern techniques.

Once you understand how root canal treatment works, and how any pain will be managed, you will be left with no worries.

 Root canal treatment will relieve your pain, not cause it!

  • One of the biggest myths surrounding root canals is that it will cause you excruciating pain. In fact, root canals are there to relieve severe tooth pain caused by infection.
  • The severe pain you associate with root canals is actually caused by the infection inside your tooth.
  • By gently opening your tooth, removing the infected/pus filled pulp and sealing the inside of your tooth, your dentist will remove the infection causing you to feel relief.
  • Thanks to modern techniques, a root canal will feel similar to having a composite filling.

 Modern Anesthesia will help to eliminate pain:

  • The main reason you won’t feel any pain during a modern root canal is due to the anesthetic. Your dentist will use numbing techniques to prevent you feeling any pain.
  • Before any injections your dentist will apply a strong numbing cream to the gum. This will reduce any sensation at the injection site.
  • Modern anesthetics will block any pain signals going to your brain by numbing the nerves attached to your infected tooth.
  • If your tooth is severely inflamed then your dentist will use special numbing techniques.

 Step-by-Step Breakdown of Root Canals:

  • Understanding exactly what happens during an root canal procedure will help you feel at ease. The whole process is very planned and efficient.
  • X-ray. Your dentist will take accurate x-rays to get a picture of your root canals. They will be able to see how deep and shaped they are as well as the extent of the infection.
  • Numb. Your dentist will anesthetize your tooth, gum and bone. They will confirm that you are numb.
  • Rubber Dam. A small sheet of rubber will be placed around the tooth. This keeps the area dry, sterile and prevents any water from getting onto your tongue.
  • Access. Your dentist will make a small hole in the top of your tooth. They will then use micro files and ultrasonic instruments to remove the dead pulp, bacteria and debris. They will then flush out the area using anti-microbial solutions.
  • Shape & Seal. Your dentist will shape your canals and seal them using a special bio compatible substance known as a thermoplastic latex fill.
  •  Your dentist will fill the hole using a temporary/permanent filling. In most cases a full coverage crown will be placed.

 Why some teeth feel sensitive after a root canal?

  • Although the treatment itself won’t cause you any pain, you may feel slight sensitivity for a couple of days whilst the anesthesia fades. This is due to your body healing.
  • The ligaments and bone at the tip of your root can become inflamed even though the nerve in your tooth has been removed.
  • The small instruments used can cause slight irritation to the tissues just outside the root tip.
  • Your jaw joint (TMJ) can become sore due to you having to keep your mouth open for between 60-90 minutes.

 How to manage any pain?

  • Most people won’t feel too much pain and can return to work straight away. You can manage any sensitivity using the following methods.
  • Take painkillers. Take anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or painkillers such as paracetamol.
  • Don’t bite/chew on the affected area. Avoid biting/chewing on the side of your mouth until your permanent crown/filling has been placed. This will stop you fracturing the weak tooth.
  • Brush and floss as normal. Be gentle around the affected area.
  • Cold compress. If you start to feel slight swelling externally, place an ice pack on your cheek for 15 minutes.

 Sedation.

  • If you suffer with dental anxiety then modern practices will offer a variety of sedation techniques to make sure you feel relaxed and stress free.
  • Laughing gas. This is inhaled via a small mask over your nose. This will make you feel relaxed whilst remaining fully conscious. The effects will wear off quickly once the mask is removed.
  • Oral sedation. You will be given medication to take beforehand which will reduce your anxiety. You will feel very relaxed and sleepy during the treatment.
  • IV sedation. This is performed by a trained specialist and will give you a deeper level of relaxation.

 When to contact your dentist?

  • You should feel slight sensitivity but if you are experiencing severe pain then contact your dental team.
  • Severe throbbing pain. If you are experiencing severe pain that is getting worse and isn’t helped by medication then this is not normal.
  • Swelling. If there is any noticeable swelling in your mouth or jaw then this could indicate an infection returning.
  • High bite. If your temporary filling is too high then this will cause extra pressure on the healing root tip. Your dentist will easily lower this.
  • Allergies. If you start to feel a rash, hives or have trouble breathing then seek emergency help.

 

Top Tips to Manage Root Canal Pain:

  • Root canals will not cause you any pain. They will remove the infection causing pain.
  • You will be fully numbed with local anesthetic.
  • You may feel slight sensitivity after the treatment but this can be managed with OTC anti-inflammatory.
  • Avoid eating hard/crunchy foods to protect your tooth. Wait until your permanent crown/filling has been placed.
  • Ask your dentist about sedation options. If you suffer with dental anxiety then ask about oral/inhalation sedation.
  • If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling or high bite then contact your dentist.

FAQs

Are root canals worse than having a tooth extracted?

No! Root canals are much less invasive than extractions. Extracting a tooth will take longer to heal, cause surrounding teeth to shift and will require expensive treatments such as implants/bridges to replace.

How long will I feel numb?

You will feel numb in your lip, cheek and tongue for 2-4 hours. Try to avoid eating hot food or chewing on the side whilst numb to avoid biting your lip or cheek.

Can I return to work?

Yes! Most people can return to work/school or everyday activities. If you had sedation then you will need to take the rest of the day off. Ask a friend/relative to drive you home.

Why does my tooth hurt when I bite down?

This is usually due to sensitivity caused by inflammation of the ligaments at the tip of your root. Or your temporary filling may be too high. Contact your dentist to have your bite checked.

Root canals are a safe and routine procedure which will stop infection. Thanks to modern techniques your dentist will make sure you don’t feel any pain. They use modern anesthesia, rotary digital tools and effective aftercare techniques. If you are suffering with tooth pain then book an appointment to relieve your pain and protect your teeth in the long term.