The Truth: Root Canals Are Pain Relievers, Not Pain Causers
If the words “root canal” make you wince, you are not alone—but you might be relying on outdated information. The simple truth is that root canals do not cause pain; they relieve the pain caused by a deep tooth infection.
For decades, pop culture has used this procedure as the punchline for a bad day. However, thanks to modern anesthesia and advanced technology, getting a root canal today is about as comfortable as getting a standard filling. At Dr. Fine Touch Dental, we see patients come in specifically because they are in pain, and they leave feeling relief.
If you have been putting off treatment because of fear, this guide is for you. Let’s separate the facts from the fiction so you can make the best decision for your smile.
Myth 1: Root Canals Are Painful
The Fact: The procedure is virtually pain-free. The infection is what hurts.
When the soft tissue inside your tooth (the pulp) becomes infected, it presses against sensitive nerves. This causes that throbbing, keep-you-up-at-night toothache. A root canal removes that infected tissue, effectively stopping the pain at the source.
Dr. Stuart Feintuch and our team use localized anesthetics to numb the entire area before we even begin. Most patients report feeling pressure, but not pain, during the treatment. Once the numbness wears off, your tooth may feel slightly tender for a day or two, but the sharp agony of the infection will be gone.
Learn more about our gentle approach on our Root Canal Therapy service page.
Myth 2: It Is Better to Just Pull the Tooth
The Fact: Nothing looks, feels, or functions as well as your natural tooth.
In moments of frustration, it is tempting to say, “Just pull it!” However, saving your natural tooth should always be the priority. When you extract a tooth, you create a gap that can cause your remaining teeth to shift, ruining your bite and leading to jaw issues.
Furthermore, keeping your natural tooth maintains the integrity of your jawbone. While we have excellent replacement options like implants, preserving your natural structure is generally less invasive and has a faster recovery time.
Comparison: Root Canal vs. Extraction
| Feature | Root Canal Therapy | Tooth Extraction |
| Comfort | Minimal discomfort; retains natural bite | Soreness; gap in smile requiring replacement |
| Cost | Moderate (procedure + crown) | High (extraction + cost of implant/bridge) |
| Longevity | Can last a lifetime with care | Implant lasts a lifetime; Bridge needs replacement |
| Bone Health | Preserves jawbone structure | Bone loss occurs unless an implant is placed |
Myth 3: Root Canals Cause Illness
The Fact: This myth is based on “science” from the 1920s that has long been debunked.
Almost 100 years ago, a theory circulated that leaving a “dead” tooth in the mouth contributed to other illnesses in the body. This has been thoroughly disproven by modern medicine.
In reality, the opposite is true. Leaving an infected tooth untreated allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream, which can complicate diabetes or heart conditions. By performing a root canal, we remove the bacteria and seal the tooth, essentially eliminating the infection and protecting your overall health.
Myth 4: The Procedure Takes Many Long Appointments
The Fact: Most root canals are completed in just one or two visits.
In the past, treating a root canal could be a long process involving manual filing and multiple trips to the dentist. Today, using advanced digital imaging and rotary endodontics (electrically powered instruments), we can clean and shape the root canals much faster and more precisely.
At our Bay Ridge and Great Neck offices, we value your time. We work efficiently to get you out of the chair and back to your life as quickly as possible.
Myth 5: The Results Don’t Last Long
The Fact: A root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Some patients believe the tooth will eventually become brittle and break. While a tooth without its nerve can become slightly more fragile, this is why we typically place a dental crown over it after the procedure. The crown acts like a helmet, protecting the tooth structure and restoring its full strength.
The longevity of your root canal largely depends on how well you take care of it afterward. Good oral hygiene is key.
Not sure if your oral hygiene routine is up to par? Read our guide on 5 Signs You Need a Dental Check-up.
Myth 6: You Only Need a Root Canal if You Are in Pain
The Fact: You can have a serious infection without feeling any pain at all.
While pain is a common symptom, it isn’t the only one. Sometimes, the nerve inside the tooth dies so quickly that the pain stops, but the infection continues to spread into the bone. In other cases, a chronic infection creates a “pimple” on the gum (fistula) that drains the infection, masking the pressure.
This is why regular X-rays are crucial. They allow us to spot dark circles around the root tips—a telltale sign of infection—before you ever feel a twinge of discomfort.
Myth 7: It Is Too Expensive
The Fact: Saving the tooth is usually cheaper than replacing it.
Many patients worry about the cost of the root canal and the crown. However, compare this to the alternative. If you extract the tooth, you need to fill the space to maintain your dental health.
Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant or a bridge involves higher costs, more surgical procedures, and a longer timeline. Investing in saving your natural tooth is often the most cost-effective decision you can make for your oral health.
What Makes Dr. Feintuch’s Treatment Different?
Experience matters when it comes to delicate procedures like this. Dr. Stuart Feintuch brings over 40 years of expertise to every treatment. He understands that dental anxiety is real, which is why our practice focuses heavily on patient comfort.
No-Wait Policy: We respect your schedule. You won’t spend hours in our waiting room.
Family Atmosphere: We are a family-run practice (Dr. Feintuch works alongside his son and daughter!), and we treat our patients like family.
Modern Technology: We use the latest diagnostic tools to ensure we only treat what is necessary, with pinpoint accuracy.
Ready to get out of pain? Visit our Contact Us page to book a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a root canal take?
Most standard procedures take between 60 to 90 minutes. If the infection is severe, we may place medication inside the tooth and have you return for a second, shorter visit to finish sealing it.
Can I eat after the procedure?
You should wait until the numbness wears off completely so you don’t accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. Once the anesthesia fades, you can eat, but try to stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth for a few days until the tenderness subsides.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Common signs include severe toothache upon chewing, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums. However, sometimes there are no symptoms, which is why exams are vital.
What happens if I avoid treatment?
The infection will not go away on its own. It will spread to the jawbone and potentially to other areas of the head and neck. Eventually, the tooth will become so damaged it must be extracted.
Restore Your Comfort and Confidence
Don’t let myths and fear stand between you and a healthy smile. A root canal is a safe, routine procedure that gets you out of pain and lets you keep your natural teeth for years to come.
If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, Dr. Fine Touch Dental is here to help with compassionate, judgment-free care.
Serving Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, and Great Neck, NY.
