Does a Non-Surgical Root Canal Hurt? What to Expect During the Procedure

Thanks to advanced techniques and numbing medication, today’s root canals are usually no more uncomfortable than getting a regular dental filling. [1] Most people are surprised at how quick and painless the experience is.

At Englewood Dental – The Center for Implants and Aesthetics, your comfort comes first. Our team takes extra care to make sure your visit is stress-free, gentle, and well-explained every step of the way. You’re in good hands here.

What Is a Non-Surgical Root Canal?

A non-surgical root canal is a dental procedure that treats problems inside the tooth without needing surgery. It’s most commonly done when the pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a crack, or injury. [2]   

Instead of removing the tooth, your dentist will gently clean out the infected pulp, disinfect the root canals, and seal them to stop bacteria from coming back. This saves your natural tooth and helps you avoid more serious problems in the future. [3]   

Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Root Canal

• A non-surgical root canal is done through a small opening in the top of the tooth and doesn’t involve cutting into the gums or bone.
• A surgical root canal (also called apicoectomy) may be needed if the tooth doesn’t heal after a regular root canal or if there are complications like tiny fractures or hidden canals. [4]  

Most root canals are non-surgical and can be completed in one or two visits. They are safe, effective, and much less intimidating than many people expect.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

One of the most common questions people ask is: “Will it hurt?”
The short answer is: Not really. Thanks to modern dental tools and anesthesia, a root canal today feels about the same as getting a regular filling. [1]  

Before the procedure begins, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. You might feel a small pinch from the needle, but after that, you shouldn’t feel any pain during the treatment itself. Most patients say they feel pressure or movement, but not pain.

In fact, the real pain usually comes before the root canal, from the infection or inflammation inside the tooth. Once the procedure is done, that pain goes away. [5]  

What About After the Root Canal?

It’s normal to feel a little sore or sensitive for a day or two afterward. This is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen. Your dentist may also give you care tips or prescribe medication if needed.

At Englewood Dental, we take extra steps to make sure you’re comfortable before, during, and after your root canal. Our goal is to make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Step-by-Step: What to Expect During the Procedure

Knowing what happens during a non-surgical root canal can help ease any worries you might have. At Englewood Dental, we guide you through each step so there are no surprises. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Exam and X-rays

First, your dentist will take X-rays to see the shape of your tooth’s root canals and check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone. 

2. Numbing the Area

Before anything else, the dentist will apply a local anesthetic to completely numb the area around the affected tooth. This means you won’t feel pain during the procedure—just a bit of pressure.

3. Placing a Dental Dam

A small sheet called a dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and clean. This also helps prevent bacteria from entering the tooth during treatment.

4. Accessing the Inside of the Tooth

The dentist will make a small opening in the top of your tooth to reach the infected pulp. Tiny tools are used to carefully remove the damaged tissue and clean out the canals inside the roots.

5. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals

Once the pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to get rid of any remaining bacteria.

6. Filling the Tooth

After cleaning, the canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal them and prevent future infection.

7. Placing a Temporary or Permanent Crown

In many cases, a temporary filling or crown is placed first. Later, you’ll return for a permanent crown that restores strength and function to the tooth.

The entire process usually takes 60 to 90 minutes, and in many cases, it can be done in just one visit. You’ll be awake the whole time but relaxed and numb.

Recovery After a Non-Surgical Root Canal

Once your root canal is done, your tooth will start to feel better, but some mild discomfort afterward is completely normal.

What You Might Feel After

For a few days, your tooth may feel:

• Slightly sore or tender when you bite down
• A bit sensitive, especially if there was swelling or infection before the treatment

This discomfort usually goes away on its own and is easy to manage with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. [6]  

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Avoid chewing on the treated side until your dentist places a permanent crown. This helps protect the tooth.
• Eat soft foods for the first day or two (think soup, yogurt, scrambled eggs).
• Brush and floss gently, but keep up with your regular oral hygiene routine.
• Follow all care instructions given by your dentist at Englewood Dental.

Most people go back to work or school the next day. If your pain worsens, or you notice swelling that doesn’t go away, be sure to contact your dentist right away.

When to Call Your Dentist

Reach out if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve
• Swelling inside your mouth or face
• An allergic reaction to medication
• A loose or broken temporary crown

At Englewood Dental – The Center for Implants and Aesthetics, we’re here to support you through every step of recovery. Don’t hesitate to call if something doesn’t feel right, we’re just a phone call away.

How Englewood Dental Ensures a Comfortable Experience

At Englewood Dental – The Center for Implants and Aesthetics, we understand that the idea of getting a root canal can be stressful. That’s why our team goes above and beyond to make sure you feel calm, informed, and comfortable, every step of the way.

A Gentle Approach You Can Trust

Our dentists are trained in the latest techniques to make your non-surgical root canal as smooth and pain-free as possible. From the moment you sit in the chair, we take time to explain what’s happening, answer your questions, and check in to make sure you’re feeling okay.

Modern Technology for Better Results

We use advanced tools and imaging to perform root canals with precision and care. This means shorter treatment times, improved accuracy, and faster healing. You’ll be amazed at how quick and easy the process can be compared to what you might expect.

Your Comfort Is Our Priority

• We use local anesthesia to numb the area so you don’t feel pain
• We offer a relaxing environment to ease dental anxiety
• Our team provides clear aftercare instructions and follows up as needed

Schedule your consultation at Englewood Dental today!