Did you know there’s actually a national day dedicated to root canal awareness? It falls on May 14 this year. Yes, seriously! It might seem odd to spotlight a procedure many people dread, yet root canal treatment has saved countless teeth and relieved just as many toothaches.

At our office, we’re big on replacing dental anxiety with clear, helpful information. Root canals might have a bad rep, but the modern experience is nothing like the outdated stories you may have heard. In fact, many patients say it’s no worse than getting a routine filling. Let’s explore how this treatment works and why it’s far more manageable than you might expect.

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal therapy is a common procedure used to address infection or inflammation deep inside a tooth. When the inner pulp becomes damaged — whether from deep decay, repeated procedures, trauma, or a cracked tooth — it can lead to pain and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.

Some signs that may indicate you need a root canal include:

  • Ongoing or sharp tooth pain
  • Pain when biting or chewing
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Tender or swollen gums
  • Sensitivity that lingers with hot or cold drinks

By treating the tooth from the inside, your dentist can eliminate infection, ease discomfort, and help preserve the natural tooth for years to come.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Root canal treatment is typically completed in a few key steps. Your dentist will begin by examining the tooth and taking X-rays to assess the issue and determine the best course of action. A local anesthetic is used to ensure the area is completely numb before any work begins. If you’re nervous, you can also choose to receive soothing laughing gas. 

Here is what happens:

  • Your dentist makes an opening in the top of your tooth to access the infected pulp.
  • Damaged tissue is removed, and the inner canals are thoroughly cleaned.
  • The canals are shaped, sterilized, and filled with a protective material.
  • A temporary or permanent filling seals the tooth to prevent future infection

In most cases, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth – either during the same visit or at a follow-up appointment – to restore its strength and function.

Following the procedure, you may experience mild sensitivity or soreness for a short time. This is completely normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Once healing is complete and the crown is placed, your restored tooth should look and feel completely natural.

Root Canal Myths – Busted

Let’s clear up a few popular misconceptions:

“Root canals are painful.”
 With today’s numbing techniques and technology, most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.

“It’s better to just remove the tooth.”
 Keeping your natural teeth is generally better for your oral health, jawbone, and overall dental function.

“The process takes forever.”
 Many root canals can be completed in just one visit, and a second appointment may only be needed for the crown.

Dental procedures can be intimidating, especially when fear of the unknown is involved. But root canal treatment is one of the most effective ways to stop pain, save your tooth, and avoid more complicated dental work in the future.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or think you may need a root canal, we’re here to help. Call  Drum Point Family & Implant Dentistry at 848-353-1535 for an appointment in Brick, NJ. Or schedule online.