Do root canals hurt?

It depends: If you wait until you are in extreme pain, a tooth can be difficult to numb for a root canal, which is not a pleasant experience. However, most root canals produce minimal discomfort. If you need a root canal it is better to have it taken care of right away by your dentist or endodontist.

NO!!!: Any invasive dental procedure would hurt if you are not properly anesthetized. A root canal is no different. If you feel any pain during the treatment you should let your dentist know. More anesthesia can then be administered. You should have no pain at all while having a root canal treatment.

Almost always NO!: Infections create an acidic environment and since we are talking root canals, we are likely talking about a tooth that is infected. Most of the time, the tooth can be completely numbed, however, in rare cases some sensation does remain so additional anesthesia may be required.

This depends...: I wish i could give you a definitive no. However, your perception of the experience is dependent upon so many factors. These include the extent of the infection, your personal tolerance to sensations, the skills of the dentist, the management of the clinical procedure by the dentist, the empathy of the dental personnel assisting you, etc.. Searching online reviews may offer you great insight!

Usually not: Two things cause pain. Trauma and infection. Infected teeth cause pain. Get rid of the infection you get rid of the pain. Root canal therapy with antibiotics gets rid of the infection, and the pain the infection causes. Root canal therapy does not cause pain. The infection does.

Shouldn't: Rct pain prior to treatment is a function of your body responding to the infection and is a warning something is wrong. Pain during the treatment should be totally controlled by the doctor with local anesthetics. Pain post operatively should be managed with medications provided either over the counter or via prescription. If you are concerned i suggest you discus these issues with your doctor.

Relatively painless: People usually confuse their tooth pain with the actual root canal therapy. However, the actual procedure should be virtually pain-free and worry free.