Endodontists perform around 15 million root canals every year in the United States. Yet, for most people, hearing the words root canal instantly causes anxiety. This common dental procedure is often associated with being painful. However, several pain relief options are now available, and discussing your options before your procedure can help ensure that you feel completely at ease before, during, and after your procedure. 

Read on to learn more about root canal pain management options in the Los Altos area.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infection or damage within a tooth's pulp — the part of the tooth that surrounds the tooth root. During the procedure, the infected tooth root or damaged tooth root tissue is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection. This procedure can help save your natural tooth and alleviate pain or discomfort associated with the infection. 

When is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal is necessary when a tooth's pulp becomes infected or damaged. This can happen from severe tooth decay or an injury to the teeth. Common symptoms that may indicate the need for this procedure include: 

  • Severe toothache
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gums
  • A pimple on the gums

Without timely treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone and tissue, potentially leading to the formation of a dental abscess. This can cause severe tooth pain and swelling — and even spread the infection to other areas of the body. In some cases, the infection can also result in bone loss around the affected tooth, which may require more extensive dental treatments. This is why it is important not to delay a root canal if necessary. 

Are Root Canals Painful?

Many of our patients ask, “How painful will a root canal be?” Root canal procedures have a reputation for being painful. However, with modern techniques and pain control options, they are now typically no more uncomfortable than having a dental filling done. The discomfort many associate with root canals often stems from the pain they experience before the procedure. 

Four Pain Relief Options During Root Canal

There are several options for pain relief during a root canal. Deciding which one is right for you will depend on the extent of your root canal, whether you’re getting other dental work done at the same time, your health history, and any allergies you may have. Below are some of the possible options you’ll have for pain relief during a root canal procedure: 

1. Local Anesthetics

Local anesthetics are medications that temporarily numb a specific area of the body, preventing pain signals from being sent to the brain during medical or dental procedures. They are a great choice for keeping you comfortable and pain-free during root canals and other dental procedures. 

2. Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, can also be used during a root canal procedure to help alleviate anxiety and discomfort. When administered by a trained dental professional, nitrous oxide can help you relax and reduce your pain perception. Nitrous oxide is a colorless and odorless gas inhaled through a mask and usually starts working within a few minutes. 

Dentists and endodontists commonly use laughing gas because it allows the patient to remain conscious and responsive throughout the procedure. Additionally, nitrous oxide is quickly eliminated from the body, enabling the patient to resume normal activities shortly after completing the procedure.

3. Sedatives

Sedatives can include either oral sedatives or intravenous sedatives. They induce a calming effect, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of well-being during the procedure. By helping you feel more at ease, sedatives can make the experience of undergoing a root canal more comfortable and manageable. Additionally, sedatives can help minimize pain perception and reduce any potential discomfort associated with the procedure. 

4. General Anesthesia 

General anesthesia may be used during a root canal procedure in cases where a patient experiences extreme anxiety or has difficulty cooperating due to young age, special needs, or medical conditions. 

This approach to pain relief may also be used during complex cases or when extensive dental work is needed. It is administered by an anesthesiologist in a hospital or surgical center setting. 

Regardless of which pain relief option you get during this procedure, you can expect a pain-free and comfortable experience. 

What’s the Best Pain Relief After a Root Canal? 

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are often recommended after this procedure. Acetaminophen can help reduce pain, while ibuprofen decreases inflammation — when used together, these medications can provide effective relief from pain following a root canal. In fact, this over-the-counter combination is shown to be more effective in reducing pain than opioid analgesics. 

Where to Find the Best Endodontist near Los Altos  

The best way to feel at ease when getting a root canal is to choose a trusted endodontist. That’s why Dr. Beddawi and her team at The Modern Endodontist prioritize pain management and patient comfort. 

Considered one of the best endodontists in the Los Altos area, Dr. Beddawi takes pride in her ability to provide pain-free root canals and her reputation for empathetic, compassionate endodontic care. The team at The Modern Endodontist is proud to be a carbon-neutral endodontic clinic that offers the most advanced technology and techniques for root canals and apicoectomies. 

Ready to schedule a pain-free root canal in the Los Altos, Sunnyvale, or surrounding area?