How Bad Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Overland Park Family Dental
Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:00:48 +0000
Root Canal Therapy

In this post, find out how bad a root canal hurts, what to expect during the procedure, and why modern treatment is far more comfortable than its reputation.

The post How Bad Does a Root Canal Hurt? appeared first on Overland Park Family Dental.

Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but that’s mostly based on old stories and misconceptions. In reality, modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain—not cause it. At Overland Park Family Dental, Dr. Creighton Gallagher regularly performs root canals that save teeth and bring patients lasting relief.

Why Patients Need Root Canals

A root canal becomes necessary when the inside of a tooth—the pulp—becomes infected or inflamed, often due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma. Left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss. A root canal removes the infection while preserving the tooth’s structure.

What to Expect During the Procedure

One of the first steps is numbing the area with local anesthesia, so you don’t feel pain during the treatment. Many patients are surprised to find that a root canal feels similar to getting a filling, just with a little more time in the chair. Advanced tools and techniques make the process smoother and more comfortable than ever before.

Does It Hurt Afterward?

Some soreness or sensitivity is normal once the anesthesia wears off, but it usually only lasts a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often enough to manage it, and most patients find that any discomfort is far less than the pain they felt before the procedure. The relief from removing the infection makes the short recovery well worth it.

Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction

When faced with an infected tooth, patients sometimes wonder if it’s easier to have the tooth pulled instead of getting a root canal. While extraction removes the infection, it also leaves a gap in your smile. Missing teeth can lead to shifting, bite problems, and bone loss in the jaw. A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is almost always the healthier and more cost-effective option in the long run. If extraction does become necessary, replacement options like dental implants or bridges add extra steps and costs.

Root Canal Relief at Overland Park Family Dental in Overland Park, KS

A root canal shouldn’t be something to fear. At Overland Park Family Dental, Dr. Creighton Gallagher focuses on making the procedure as comfortable and stress-free as possible while helping patients preserve their natural teeth. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or think you may need a root canal, call our Overland Park office or schedule an appointment online. Getting treatment quickly can ease your discomfort and protect your smile.

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