Root canal treatment is one of the most common dental procedures used to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Yet, it often comes with many questions and concerns. This FAQ blog answers all the most common questions people have about root canal therapy—helping to reduce anxiety, clarify misconceptions, and provide peace of mind.

1. What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. The dentist removes the infected pulp (soft tissue inside the root), cleans and disinfects the canals, and then fills and seals the tooth to restore its function.

2. Why do I need a root canal?

A root canal is necessary when:

• You have deep decay reaching the pulp
• There’s an infection or abscess inside the tooth
• You’ve experienced trauma or cracks in the tooth
• Repeated dental procedures have weakened the tooth

Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to severe pain and tooth loss.

3. Is a root canal painful?

No, modern root canal procedures are virtually painless. With local anesthesia and advanced techniques, most people report feeling little to no discomfort during or after the procedure. It is typically less painful than a tooth extraction.

4. What are the symptoms that I might need a root canal?

Common signs include:

• Severe toothache while chewing
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold