The Myth vs. The Reality
"Root canal" is often used as shorthand for a dental nightmare — but with modern local anaesthesia and technique, most patients say it feels no different from getting a routine filling.
When Do You Actually Need One?
- Deep decay that has reached the tooth's nerve
- A cracked or injured tooth exposing the inner pulp
- Persistent, throbbing tooth pain, especially at night
- A tooth that has darkened or become tender to touch
What The Procedure Actually Involves
Your dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and shapes the empty canal, then seals it — usually followed by a crown to protect the tooth long-term. Most cases are completed in one to two visits.
Recovery: What To Expect
Mild sensitivity for a few days is normal and manageable with the pain relief your dentist prescribes. The alternative — leaving an infected tooth untreated — almost always leads to more pain and a lost tooth, so early treatment is the more comfortable path in the long run.
