“Root canal” might be one of the most feared phrases in dentistry, but the reality is much less dramatic than its reputation. If you’ve been told you need one, here’s what actually happens, how long it takes, and what it typically costs, so you know what to expect before you sit in the chair.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
This is the question almost everyone asks first, and the honest answer is: the procedure itself is performed with local anesthesia, so most patients feel little to no pain during treatment. In fact, a root canal is meant to relieve the pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth, not create new pain, most of the discomfort patients associate with root canals actually comes from the infection itself, before treatment even starts.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
A typical root canal takes about 60 to 90 minutes for a single appointment, though more complex cases, or teeth with multiple canals, can take longer or require a second visit. Your dentist will let you know ahead of time roughly how long to expect based on the specific tooth involved.
What Happens During a Root Canal, Step by Step
The tooth is first numbed with local anesthesia, then a small opening is made to access the infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth. That damaged tissue is carefully removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the empty space is filled and sealed to prevent future infection. In most cases, a crown is placed afterward to protect and strengthen the tooth, since a tooth that’s had a root canal can become more brittle over time.
Root Canal Recovery: What to Expect Afterward
Mild soreness or tenderness around the treated tooth is normal for a few days and is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients return to normal eating and daily activities within a day or two, though it’s best to avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until any permanent crown is placed.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
Cost depends on which tooth is being treated (molars with multiple canals are typically more involved than front teeth), whether a crown is needed afterward, and your insurance coverage. Many PPO plans cover a significant portion of root canal treatment because it’s restorative rather than cosmetic, and we offer financing options through Cherry and CareCredit for any remaining balance. The most accurate estimate comes from an exam, since it depends on the specific tooth and extent of infection.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: Why Save the Tooth?
When a tooth is infected, the two main options are a root canal or an extraction, and in most cases, saving the natural tooth is the better long-term choice. A root canal preserves your natural bite and appearance without the added cost and healing time of replacing the tooth afterward with a bridge or implant. Extraction is sometimes necessary if the tooth is too damaged to save, but it’s generally considered after a root canal is ruled out, not before.
Think You Might Need a Root Canal?
If you’re dealing with a toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, or swelling near a specific tooth, it’s worth getting evaluated before the problem worsens. Call (815) 444-6444 or schedule an appointment online and we’ll take a look and walk you through your options.
No, both are performed with local anesthesia, and most patients report a root canal feels similar to getting a filling. The pain people associate with root canals usually comes from the infection that made the procedure necessary, not the treatment itself.
Common signs include a persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus is removed, swelling or tenderness in the gums, or a tooth that’s become discolored. Only a dental exam and X-ray can confirm whether a root canal is actually needed.
Most patients can return to work or normal activities the same day, though you may want to avoid chewing on the treated side until any numbness wears off. Some people prefer to take the rest of the day easy simply for comfort.
In most cases, yes, especially for back teeth that handle significant chewing force, since the tooth can become more brittle after treatment. Your dentist will let you know whether your specific tooth needs a crown for long-term protection.
An untreated infection can spread, worsen, and eventually require extraction of the tooth, along with a higher risk of more serious health complications. Root canals exist specifically to save the tooth and stop the infection before it gets to that point.