Are Root Canals Really Painful? Busting the Biggest Myth

Are Root Canals Really Painful? Busting the Biggest Myth

Mention "root canal" in conversation, and you'll usually see a wince. Dr Ian Blewitt, our specialist endodontist at Baudelaire Dental Clinic, hears this reaction constantly and he's clear that the reputation is largely outdated.

Where the Myth Comes From

There's a long-standing belief that root canals are inherently painful. Dr Blewitt is honest that some situations can feel a little uncomfortable, but for the vast majority of patients, the procedure itself should be completely pain-free. What patients more often notice is that the appointment runs a little longer than typical dental treatment, and that certain parts of the process feel unfamiliar rather than painful.

What a Root Canal Actually Involves

Because the treatment is addressing bacteria and infection, the area needs to be kept completely clean throughout. This is achieved using a rubber dam, a small clip and a sheet that isolates the tooth from the rest of the mouth. Some patients initially find this sensation a little strange, but it's a key part of what makes root canal treatment successful, and the vast majority of patients adapt to it quickly and comfortably.

The Surprising Truth: Most Patients Get Bored, Not Scared

Perhaps the most reassuring insight Dr Blewitt offers is what actually happens once treatment is underway: many patients find the experience uneventful enough that they fall asleep during the procedure, without any sedation at all.

Why Delaying Treatment Out of Fear Backfires

If fear of pain is what's keeping you from booking a root canal you actually need, Dr Blewitt's advice is direct: treating a problem earlier is almost always simpler, faster, and more comfortable than waiting until symptoms become severe.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will I be awake during my root canal?

  Yes, root canal treatment is normally carried out under local anaesthetic with the patient awake, though many patients find the experience relaxing enough to doze off.

• Is sedation available for root canal treatment?

  Yes - for patients who would prefer it, sedation can be arranged alongside standard local anaesthetic to help you feel more relaxed throughout.

• What is a rubber dam and why is it used?

  A rubber dam is a small clip and sheet that isolates the tooth being treated from the rest of your mouth, keeping the area clean and significantly improving treatment success.

Don't let fear of pain delay treatment you need. Book a consultation with Dr Ian Blewitt at Baudelaire Dental Clinic, Marylebone.