Is Root Canal Painful? Myths vs Reality – What Australians Should Know

Is a Root Canal Painful?

No, a root canal is generally not painful today. Modern Australian dental clinics use advanced anaesthetics and technology that make the procedure feel similar to getting a filling.

Many people still ask: Does a root canal hurt? How much pain is normal? What actually happens during the procedure? This guide separates myth from reality and explains what Australians should know before undergoing treatment.

What Causes the Myth That Root Canals Are Painful?

Root canals used to be uncomfortable decades ago, long before modern anaesthetic systems and precision tools existed. Today’s treatment, however, is much faster, safer, and virtually painless thanks to:

• Advanced local anaesthetics

• Digital imaging

• Rotary instruments

• Gentle cleaning techniques

• Patient-focused pain-relief protocols

The myth continues, but the reality is very different.

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful? The Reality

No, a root canal should not be painful.

Most patients report:

• feeling pressure

• hearing vibrations

• remaining comfortable and numb throughout

Why It Doesn’t Hurt

A root canal removes the nerve causing the pain, so the procedure itself actually solves the discomfort rather than creating it.

Pain Level Chart (Based on Patient Reports)

Stage	Pain Level	What You Feel
During Procedure	0–2/10	Pressure, not pain
24 Hours After	2–4/10	Mild soreness
48–72 Hours	1–3/10	Lessening discomfort

What Does a Root Canal Feel Like? Step-by-Step Overview

1. Anaesthetic Administration

Your dentist numbs the tooth completely. Sensation: A quick pinch or pressure for 1–2 seconds.

2. Tooth Isolation

A rubber dam is placed to keep the tooth dry. Sensation: Slight stretching, nothing painful.

3. Cleaning the Canals

The dentist removes the infected nerve tissue. Sensation: Vibration similar to a filling.

4. Disinfection

Antibacterial solutions clean the canals. Sensation: None — you remain numb.

5. Filling the Canals

The canals are sealed to prevent future infection. Sensation: Light pressure.

6. Final Restoration

A filling or crown is placed over the tooth. Sensation: Bite adjustments as needed.

Why You Feel Pain Before the Root Canal, Not During

The intense toothache many people experience comes from:

• Inflamed tooth nerve

• Deep decay

• Swelling from infection

• Pressure inside the tooth

• Abscess forming near the root

A root canal removes this irritated nerve, which is why many patients feel immediate relief after the procedure.

Root Canal Pain Relief: What’s Normal After Treatment?

Mild to moderate tenderness for 24–72 hours is normal.

Common Post-Treatment Sensations

• Slight aching

• Sensitivity when biting

• Gum inflammation

• Soreness around the treated tooth

Recommended Pain Relief for Australians

• Paracetamol (Panadol®)

• Ibuprofen (Nurofen®)

• Cold compresses

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth for a few days

Contact your dentist if pain is severe or worsening after three days.

Why Modern Root Canals Are More Comfortable Than Ever

Technology Used in Australian Clinics

• Rotary NiTi filing systems

• Digital apex locators

• 3D CBCT imaging

• Warm obturation techniques

These innovations reduce treatment time and improve comfort.

Comfort Dentistry Options

For anxious patients, many clinics offer:

• Nitrous oxide (happy gas)

• Oral sedation

• IV sedation (where appropriate)

How Long Does Root Canal Pain Last?

Most discomfort settles within 24–72 hours, with full comfort returning in about a week.

Timeline Summary

Time After	Expected Feeling
0–12 hours	Numbness
24 hours	Mild soreness
48 hours	Improvement
72 hours	Minimal discomfort
7 days	Normal function

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful Compared to Extraction?

A root canal is generally less painful and offers faster recovery than tooth extraction.

Benefits of Saving the Tooth

• Prevents shifting

• Avoids bone loss

• Preserves natural function

• Often less invasive overall

Who Typically Needs a Root Canal?

You may need treatment if you have:

• Deep decay

• Severe toothache

• Cracked teeth

• Trauma injury

• Abscess or infection

• Lingering sensitivity

Children may also need nerve treatment for traumatised teeth.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost in Australia?

Average 2024 pricing:

Tooth Type	Estimated Cost
Front Tooth	$900–$1,400
Premolar	$1,000–$1,600
Molar	$1,300–$2,000+

Costs vary based on complexity and whether a crown is required. Extras cover through Australian health funds typically offers partial rebates.

Patient Case Example 

A patient at Balgownie Dental (let’s call her Sarah) arrived with severe toothache from deep decay. She feared the root canal due to stories from older relatives.

Her actual experience:

• No pain during treatment

• Discomfort faded within 48 hours

• Crown restored full function

• She said the procedure was “much easier than expected”

This reflects typical modern outcomes.

When You Should See a Dentist Immediately

Seek urgent attention if you experience:

• Persistent or severe toothache

• Facial swelling

• Fever

• Sensitivity lasting more than a few seconds

• Pain when chewing

• A pimple-like bump on the gums

Prompt treatment prevents complications and reduces costs.

Quick Answers

Does a root canal hurt?

No — modern anaesthetic ensures a painless procedure.

Why do people think root canals are painful?

Old myths from outdated techniques.

How long will I be sore?

24–72 hours of mild discomfort.

Can anxious patients be sedated?

Yes, many Australian clinics offer sedation.

Is extraction more painful?

Usually, yes — and recovery takes longer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I know if I need a root canal instead of a filling?

If decay reaches the nerve or pain lingers, a root canal is likely needed. X-rays confirm the diagnosis.

2. Can I drive after a root canal?

Yes—unless you’ve had oral or IV sedation.

3. Can a root canal fail or need retreatment?

Yes, but failure rates are low. Retreatment can correct unresolved infection.

4. Do all root canals need crowns?

Molars usually do, as they undergo more biting pressure. Front teeth may not.

5. When can I eat again after treatment?

After numbness wears off, usually 2–3 hours post-procedure.

Final Thoughts – What Australians Should Really Know

Root canal treatment today is safe, effective, and comfortable. The idea that a root canal is painful is outdated. Avoiding treatment, however, can lead to worsening pain, swelling, or tooth loss.

If you're experiencing toothache or suspect nerve infection, the team at Balgownie Dental can provide gentle, modern care using techniques designed to keep you completely comfortable.

Book an appointment: https://www.balgowniedental.com/