Do Root Canals Hurt? The Real Story You Need to Know
“At Mustang Crossing Dental Care, we often hear the question, ‘Do root canals hurt?’ The truth is, with today’s modern technology and careful technique, they don’t. Most patients compare the experience to getting a cavity filled. The real pain comes from the infected tooth before treatment, not the root canal itself. Once the infected pulp is removed, relief is almost immediate. We always make sure you’re fully numb before we begin, and most patients don’t even need pain medication afterward.” — Dr. Natasha Crespo, Mustang Crossing Dental Care, Forney, TX
Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “Do root canals hurt?” You’re not alone—most people tense up the moment they hear those words. But here’s the good news: root canal treatment isn’t the nightmare it’s often made out to be.
At Mustang Crossing Dental Care in Forney, TX, we’ve helped countless patients feel calm, comfortable, and pain-free during the process. Dr. Natasha Crespo and our team believe that understanding what really happens during a root canal can turn fear into relief—and maybe even make you wonder why you waited so long.
Do root canals hurt? Get the truth
The short answer is no—not when they’re done right. Modern dentistry has changed a lot over the years, and root canal procedures today are far gentler than they used to be. Most people compare the experience to getting a cavity filled. With effective numbing and careful technique, you’ll feel pressure but not pain.
At Mustang Crossing Dental Care, we don’t rush this part. Dr. Crespo always makes sure you’re fully numb before we begin. Once the local anesthetic kicks in, the infected pulp inside your tooth is carefully removed, and the canal is cleaned and sealed. That infected pulp is what causes pain—once it’s gone, most patients feel instant relief.
Will a root canal remove my tooth’s roots?
This is one of the biggest myths out there. A root canal doesn’t remove your tooth’s roots at all. Instead, it targets the infected pulp—the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Those structures can become inflamed from deep decay, repeated dental work, or trauma.
During root canal therapy, we remove only the damaged tissues from inside the canal, leaving the root structure intact. This means your natural tooth stays right where it belongs, helping you chew normally and keeping your bite aligned. Saving your natural tooth is always better for your long-term oral health.
How long does a root canal take—a whole day?
Not even close. Most root canal procedures take about 60 to 90 minutes. That’s it. The time depends on how many canals your tooth has and how severe the infection is. A molar, for example, has more roots than a front tooth, so it takes a bit longer.
Dr. Crespo uses modern technology to work efficiently without compromising comfort. We use a dental dam to isolate the tooth, keeping the area clean and dry. Once the infected tissue is removed and the canal is disinfected, we fill it with a material called Gutta-percha.
Finally, a temporary filling is placed until a permanent crown is ready to protect the tooth.
Isn’t pulling a tooth better than a root canal?
It might seem easier to pull a tooth, but in most cases, saving your natural tooth is the better option. A root canal treatment restores the tooth’s function without affecting nearby teeth or your jawbone. Tooth extraction, on the other hand, can lead to shifting teeth, bone loss, and long-term bite issues.
By keeping your natural tooth, you preserve your chewing ability and avoid more complex—and costly—dental work down the road. At Mustang Crossing Dental Care, our goal is to protect what nature gave you whenever possible.
Isn’t a root canal painful?
This is the part that surprises people the most: root canals are not extremely painful. In fact, most patients feel less discomfort during a root canal than they did before the procedure. That’s because the real pain comes from the tooth infection itself—swelling, inflammation, and pressure from bacteria inside the pulp.
Once we remove the source of the problem, that severe pain eases quickly. With local anesthesia and options like nitrous oxide for anxious patients, you’ll stay relaxed and comfortable from start to finish.
But doesn’t a root canal hurt when it’s over?
It’s normal to feel mild tenderness for a day or two after a root canal, but “hurt” is too strong a word. Think of it like soreness after a workout. Over-the-counter medications usually handle any lingering discomfort.
Here’s what you might notice for a few days:
Slight sensitivity when chewing
Mild swelling around the gums
A tender bite on the treated tooth
If the pain persists beyond a few days or becomes worse, call us. Dr. Crespo will check for signs of lingering infection or other issues.
How can I ease pain during root canal recovery?
Root canal recovery is usually smooth, but a few simple steps can help you feel your best:
Take over-the-counter medications as directed.
Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated side until your permanent crown is placed.
Keep the area clean by brushing and flossing gently.
Rinse with warm salt water if your gums feel sore.
Most patients return to their normal routine the same day. Within a few days, your mouth should feel back to normal—and better than it did before the root canal.
How can I lower my odds of needing a root canal?
The best way to avoid root canal therapy is to stop problems before they start. Good oral hygiene goes a long way. Here’s what we recommend:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily.
- Visit Mustang Crossing Dental Care in Forney, TX, for regular checkups.
- Treat cavities early—before they reach the pulp.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
By keeping bacteria in check and addressing tooth decay early, you reduce the risk of infection and protect your natural teeth for life.
What to expect from a root canal procedure
If you’ve never had a root canal, here’s a quick look at what happens:
| Step | What Happens | What You Feel |
|---|---|---|
| Numbing | We numb the tooth and gums. | Pressure, not pain |
| Access | A small opening is made to reach the pulp. | Gentle vibration |
| Cleaning | Infected pulp is removed; canals are cleaned. | Nothing — you’re numb |
| Filling | Canals are sealed with Gutta-percha. | Still comfortable |
| Protection | A crown is placed later to protect the tooth. | Feels like a normal tooth again |
Most people leave the office surprised at how easy it was—and relieved that the toothache is finally gone.
Why choosing the right dentist matters
A root canal’s success isn’t just about the procedure—it’s about the people behind it. Dr. Natasha Crespo has years of experience performing root canal treatments with a gentle touch and attention to detail. Our Mustang Crossing Dental Care team in Forney, TX, takes time to listen, answer your questions, and tailor treatment to your comfort.
Root canal therapy has a high success rate, and with the right dentist, it’s not something to fear. It’s a solution that restores your oral health and lets you smile with confidence again.
Trust Mustang Crossing Dental Care for root canal therapy
So, do root canals hurt? Not when they’re done with care, skill, and patience. At Mustang Crossing Dental Care in Forney, TX, Dr. Crespo and our team focus on keeping you comfortable every step of the way. Root canal treatment is about relief, not pain—and it’s one of the best ways to save your natural tooth and protect your smile for years to come.
If you’ve been putting off care because you’re worried about root canal pain, now’s the time to change that story. Let’s make your next visit one that brings comfort, confidence, and lasting oral health.