What happens during a normal root canal procedure? i've been told i need a root canal - my first one- and have heard nothing but horror stories from friends. i'm usually fine with dental procedures, but this one has me on edge.

Dr. : Dr. Zweig has given you great advice. Root canal therapy is done routinely without a problem.

I : I agree with all of the above. Don't listen to horror stories--they are usually more painful than the root canal!

Dr : Dr zwieg has answered the question well. Take that advice. Dr neil mcleod dds dentistry that lasts - quality that counts.

Unless : Unless you have a terrible toothache caused by a serious raging infection, a root canal should be painless. The horror stories come from people who are already in great pain. If yours is a routine situation (which it sounds like since it is not an emergency procedure) you should be fine with local anesthetic. Now mind you, this is not like getting your hair cut. You may have some post-operative discomfort which wil likely be able to be managed with routine painkillers.

See specialist: See an endodontist. Today's root canal treatments are usually quite painless and completed in 1 hour with one visit. If you have a serious infection with it, then this takes longer and often multiple visits.

Microscopic Endodont: I have performed over 20, 000 root canals in my career and i get patients daily with your concerns. It is my belief that if you go to a specialist that does root canals with the use of the operating microscope, you will receive this procedure without pain, efficiently, and techniquely superior. It can often be done in one visit. Get a referral in your area. You will do great and have a positive ex.

Usually painless: You never hear about the "good" root canals, as they don't make good stories. However, they probably account for the majority of cases. Often times people have little or no post-op discomfort, and all the worry was for nothing. Also, it's not uncommon for patients to doze off during a root canal procedure!