How to Prevent Pain During a Root Canal

Root canals have a reputation for being painful. But, in most cases, patients say it's no more painful than having a cavity filled. It's often the pain leading up to the root canal that people are talking about. In some cases, teeth needing root canals could be drilled into without an anesthetic and you wouldn't even feel it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Get a root canal as soon as you know you need one. Meaning, don't wait until your tooth is sore and inflamed. There's no need to put yourself through that suffering when you know the inevitable. Just get it done.

2. Talk to the dentist prior to the procedure. Get as much information as you can so you're well informed about what to expect.

3. Ask your doctor to numb the tooth that needs the root canal. He'll use local anesthesia. This should completely numb the tooth.

4. Expect the dentist to use one shot of anesthesia if your tooth is not inflamed. If it's red and swollen, though, he may use multiple shots to numb your tooth.

5. Take over-the-counter pain medications if you're sore after the root canal. Try aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Tips & Warnings

• Call your dentist if pain lasts for more than a couple of days or if there is major swelling.
• Don't bite or chew on the affected tooth if it's sore after the root canal.

Resources

• Information about root canals
• More on root canals

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