How bad will a root canal hurt?

Question

I am scheduled for a root canal soon and am scared of pain at the dentist. Has anyone had a root canal and how was the recovery time?

Answer 1

when I had mine done I went to work that same day all I needed was some ibprofun other then hat I was just fine

Answer 2

Root canals should not be painful during the procedure. Let the dentist know if you are feeling discomfort while he or she is working. Afterwards it is possible you may have some tenderness to biting.  This tenderness should be alleviated by Tylenol or Advil.

Answer 3

The dentist will give you novocaine or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) before the procedure.  Afterwards, you may be a bit sore, which can be addressed with a simple painkiller.

It's not nearly as bad as you think.

Answer 4

They will numb you up pretty good and you shouldn't feel any pain.  Just a lot of pressure but it doesn't hurt.

The most painful part for me is before they perform the procedure, they do a hot and cold test for confirmation of the tooth, and that part hurt pretty bad personally due to how sensitive my tooth was, so if your dentist does that just brace yourself.  It only lasts for a second or two.

Don't be too stressed, it's not that bad, and afterwords they'll give you something to take home for the pain that will make you feel gooood, haha.

Answer 5

They will give you laughing gas and you will not feel any pain.  

Answer 6

I had one done about a month ago.  I went to an endondontist, and they gave me little glasses that I would watch tv through.  I watched FRIENDS the whole time, it was great.  The shot was the worst part. It helped that they were really nice.  I told them I was super nervous, and I think that helped them prepare me. They gave me Motrin 800  for the pain.  I could only eat soft foods for the rest of the day, but it wasn't too bad.  Getting the crown on was just as bad for me.  I am a big baby.  But, I just had my wisdom teeth pulled Monday (4 days ago), and I am still swollen and sore!   I would rather have a root canal.

Answer 7

I was a dental assistant. Trust me they are not as bad as people say they are. You will get novocaine and you wont feel it. They will most likely put what is called a rubber dam over the tooth so that it is isolated so that will be over your mouth which I have consistantly heard that is the most un comfortable part which is only taht way because you have to keep your mouth open the whole time. Once they get in the tooth where they need to be they will numb inside the tooth also so that you wont feel any pain. This can sting a little but nothign unbarable.  Before you know it they seal it and you are finished. Ibuprofen or Motrin is best to take after. You'll be up and out that day or the day after! Good luck and dont worry!

Answer 8

not bad at all. i went in expecting the worst. They gave me a bottle of Tylenol 4's and I went home. I even went out that night with no problems. As far as Im concerned a root canal is easier than getting a filling done.