The thing most patients are concerned with is whether or not the procedure will be painful. With the latest technologies and anesthetics, root canal treatment is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. While many patients may be in great pain before seeing an endodontist, most report that the pain is relieved by the treatment and they are comfortable during the procedure. For the first few days after treatment, the tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

During the root canal procedure, the endodontist or general dentist carefully numbs the tooth, removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space to prevent further infection and discomfort.

With properly performed root canal procedures, teeth can function normally for a lifetime. However, after a root canal, it is essential that the patient return to his or her general dentist or prosthodontist to have a crown or other restoration placed over the endodontically treated tooth to protect it. Often a post and core procedure will be done prior to making the crown to restore the tooth to its original form and function.