Do I Really Need a Root Canal? What You Need to Know


Woman holding her cheek in pain. Caption: If you're in pain, root canal treatment will make you comfortable again.

Hearing from a dentist that you need a root canal can be unsettling. Many patients immediately associate the procedure with pain or discomfort, but the reality is much different. A root canal is often the best way to relieve pain and save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

At Dental Partners of Boston, we prioritize patient comfort and use the latest technology to make root canals a straightforward and painless experience.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure designed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely damaged. Inside each tooth is soft tissue known as the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected—usually due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma—the only way to save the tooth is to remove the damaged pulp.

During a root canal, your dentist carefully removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. In most cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Not everyone who needs a root canal will experience symptoms, but there are a few key signs to watch out for:

  • Persistent Tooth Pain: If you’re experiencing ongoing pain in a tooth that doesn’t go away, it could be a sign of an infection in the pulp.
  • Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: Unusual or prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks may indicate that the pulp inside your tooth is damaged.
  • Tooth Discoloration: A tooth that has become darkened or discolored could be a sign that the nerve inside is dying and requires treatment.
  • Swollen or Tender Gums: Swelling, tenderness, or a pimple-like bump on the gums near a specific tooth can indicate an infection that may need a root canal.
  • Pain When Chewing or Touching the Tooth: If a tooth is sensitive to pressure, it might mean that there is an infection affecting the nerves inside the tooth.
  • Chipped or Cracked Tooth: A tooth that has been chipped or cracked is more vulnerable to bacteria, which can lead to infection inside the tooth.

Why a Root Canal Is Necessary

When a tooth’s pulp is infected, it won’t heal on its own. If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing increased pain, abscesses, and even damage to surrounding teeth and bone. Eventually, the only option would be to remove the tooth altogether. Losing a tooth not only affects the appearance of your smile but can also lead to bite problems, difficulty chewing, and further dental complications.

A root canal is the best way to save your natural tooth and avoid more invasive treatments in the future. When properly cared for, a treated tooth can last a lifetime, allowing you to maintain a healthy and functional smile.

Common Myths About Root Canals

There are many misconceptions about root canals, which often lead to unnecessary fear or hesitation about getting the procedure. Let’s clear up some common myths:

Root Canals Are Painful

Root canals have a bad reputation, but they are actually designed to relieve pain. With modern anesthetics and techniques, the procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure, and any discomfort afterward is usually mild and temporary.

It’s Better to Pull the Tooth

Saving your natural tooth is always the best option when possible. Extracting a tooth can lead to complications, such as shifting of nearby teeth, bone loss, and the need for more extensive dental work like implants or bridges. A root canal preserves your tooth and helps maintain your natural smile.

Root Canals Cause Illness

This myth has been debunked by scientific studies. Root canals are a safe and effective way to treat infected teeth. The procedure does not increase the risk of illness in other parts of the body.

What to Expect During a Root Canal

At Dental Partners of Boston, we prioritize patient comfort every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect during a root canal procedure:

  1. Anesthesia: Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
  2. Cleaning the Tooth: A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The dentist will then remove the damaged tissue and clean out the inside of the tooth.
  3. Filling and Sealing: Once the tooth is cleaned, it will be filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent future infection.
  4. Restoration: In most cases, a crown will be placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and appearance. This is usually done in a separate appointment after the tooth has healed.

Aftercare and Recovery

After the procedure, you may experience some mild soreness or sensitivity, but this typically resolves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your root canal-treated tooth can remain healthy and functional for many years.

When Should You Get a Root Canal?

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of infection or discomfort, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent further damage and help preserve your natural tooth. Ignoring the problem can lead to more pain, complications, and costly treatments in the future.

Trust Dental Partners of Boston for Comfortable, Effective Treatment

At Dental Partners of Boston, our experienced team is committed to providing the highest level of care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. If you’ve been told you need a root canal—or if you’re experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth—contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that relieves your pain and restores your smile.

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