If you need a root canal in Jacksonville, you might be preparing for a painful, uncomfortable, and highly invasive dental procedure. After all, everyone says root canals hurt, right? At least, that’s what pop culture would have you believe.
But the answer may surprise you. Root canals don’t hurt at all during treatment, and only cause a small amount of post-procedure discomfort. Read on, and in this blog from JAX Dental Studio, we’ll separate fact from fiction and discuss why root canals are a completely safe and pain-free treatment.
Root Canals Are A Completely Pain-Free Treatment
First, root canal treatment does not hurt at all. This treatment is minimally invasive, and Dr. Poblenz will use numbing spray and a needle to completely anesthetize the nerves near your affected tooth during the dental procedure. You won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the process.
We also offer sedation dentistry for those feeling anxious. With sedation from JAX Dental Studio, you can relax and feel comfortable throughout your root canal procedure, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish.
Using the latest dental technology, such as our iTero 5D digital scanner and soft tissue laser, the entire procedure typically takes less than an hour. You’ll leave with a restored, natural tooth that looks and feels just like your own.
Minor Post-Treatment Discomfort Is Normal
While root canal treatment doesn’t hurt during the process, it’s common to feel mild pain or sensitivity afterward. This is due to irritation in the soft tissue surrounding the root of your tooth—not the tooth itself, since the infected pulp is removed during treatment.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or topical solutions can ease this temporary discomfort. If pain lasts more than a few days, it could mean the infection remains, and you may need a root canal retreatment.
Why You May Need A Root Canal Therapy
If you’re dealing with an infected tooth, you’re likely experiencing severe pain, swelling, or sensitivity to hot and cold. These symptoms can be caused by an abscessed tooth, deep decay, or even a cracked tooth. Sometimes, the issue starts with a tooth pulp infection, where bacteria reach the inner nerves and blood vessels of the tooth.
Without endodontic treatment, the infected tooth pulp can lead to an abscess, bone loss, or the need to have the tooth extracted. Preserving your natural tooth is always our goal, and root canal therapy may be the best option.
Repeated trauma or repeated dental procedures on the same tooth can also damage the tooth pulp, resulting in the need for endodontic treatment. A loose tooth may also be a symptom that points to underlying infection.
What Happens During A Root Canal Treatment?
During your appointment, we isolate the affected tooth with a dental dam to keep it clean and dry. Dr. Poblenz will carefully remove the infected pulp, clean the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent future tooth infection. Once healed, a custom tooth’s crown is placed to restore strength and appearance.
Thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, the entire process is straightforward, efficient, and can save your smile from unnecessary extraction.
Tooth Pain? Relief is Closer Than You Think
If you’re wondering whether you need a root canal, don’t wait until the discomfort worsens. The sooner we address your tooth infection, the easier the recovery. At JAX Dental Studio, we’ve helped countless patients restore their oral health with compassionate care and advanced treatment options.
Why Choose JAX Dental Studio for Root Canal Treatment
At JAX Dental Studio, we understand the anxiety that can come with needing a root canal treatment. That’s why we prioritize comfort, efficiency, and transparency throughout every step of your care. With years of clinical experience and a commitment to the Jacksonville community, Dr. Poblenz and our team make sure you feel confident in your treatment choices.
Using cutting-edge dental technology, we deliver precise and comfortable care—from diagnosis to recovery. Whether you’re experiencing severe pain from an abscessed tooth or suspect a tooth pulp issue, we’re here to help preserve your smile and relieve your pain. Contact JAX Dental Studio online or give us a call at (904) 396-4091 to schedule an appointment and get the help you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that I may need a root canal treatment?
You may need a root canal treatment if you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around a tooth, or discoloration. These symptoms often mean the pulp chamber is infected or inflamed due to deep tooth decay, trauma, or a previous filling that has failed. A dentist can confirm with an X-ray and evaluation.
Will I feel pain during the root canal procedure?
Thanks to modern local anesthesia, most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure. The area around the treated tooth is completely numbed before your dentist begins working. You may feel slight pressure, but no sharp pain, making it a manageable experience for most people.
What should I avoid doing after a root canal?
After your treated tooth receives a temporary or permanent restoration, it’s important to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until your final crown is placed. This protects the tooth from damage. With proper care, your restored tooth can last just as long as your other teeth.
Can a root canal fail if I’ve had a previous filling in the tooth?
Yes, sometimes a previous filling can crack or allow bacteria to enter the pulp chamber, leading to reinfection and the need for a needed root canal treatment. If this happens, a retreatment may be necessary to save the tooth and eliminate infection.
How can I care for my teeth after a root canal to prevent future issues?
After a root canal, maintain proper care by brushing and flossing daily, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups. This not only protects the treated tooth but also prevents tooth decay from developing in your other teeth.
