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Will a Root Canal Treatment Hurt?

March 20, 2025

A root canal treatment is one of the most important restorative dentistry Charleston, SC procedures. Despite its ability to restore an infected or damaged tooth’s health, appearance, and function, it developed a reputation for being unpleasant and painful. Contrary to popular belief, a root canal procedure is designed to eliminate pain rather than cause it.  

patient afraid of getting Cosmetic Dentistry in Charleston SC

Top Reasons Why Root Canal Treatments Don’t Hurt

Local Anesthesia

Your dentist will inject a local anesthetic into your gums near the tooth to numb the area where they’ll perform the root canal. While it may take a few minutes, the medication will ensure you won’t feel any pain during your root canal treatment. You may also receive sedation to help you relax during your procedure. 

Better Techniques, Technologies, and Tools

Root canal procedures have come a long way, thanks to new techniques, cutting-edge technologies, and state-of-the-art equipment developed in recent years. Today, the treatment process is quicker, more efficient, and less painful than ever before.  

Modern root canal techniques use advanced tools, such as rotary instruments, digital X-rays, and dental lasers, to ensure precision, efficiency, and patient comfort while minimizing the risk of complications. 

Removal of the Infected Tissue

The tooth’s pulp houses the nerves and blood vessels that help the tooth grow and develop. Once fully formed, the tooth won’t need the pulp to survive. However, when bacteria gain access to the pulp through a deep cavity or fracture, the pulp may become infected and cause pain. 

During a root canal procedure, the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp to eliminate what’s causing the pain in the first place. Besides removing the infected tissue, your dentist will get rid of bacteria and debris that may be putting pressure on the affected tooth’s nerve.  

Patient undergoing Cosmetic Dentistry in Charleston SC

Considering Restorative Dentistry in Charleston, SC?

At North Rivers Dental, we provide expert care to patients in a professional environment. Contact us today to make an appointment.

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This was my first visit, and I am truly impressed!  The facility is very inviting in every way, the staff is outstanding, kind, & professional, and I am happy to say that I have found my dental home place! 😊  Thank You!

Deborah A..

It brings happy tears to my eyes knowing that my smile is fixed. Dr. Jake worked for 2 1/2 hours repairing old, cracked fillings, sealed between my teeth. This weighed on my confidence for three years and I barely ever wanted to talk. My teeth are restored back to their original state and it’s unbelievable what a patient, and kind dentist can do for one’s confidence. I owe ya one, Dr Jake!"

Alejandra M.

Scheduled my elderly mother a new patient visit and every single staff member we were in contact with was EXTREMELY helpful and so sweet! I’m thinking of switching myself! We couldn’t be happier with this office!

Alison F.

I have been going to Dr Emerson at North Rivers Dental for years now and every time I go I never had a bad experience. Thank you all!

Cynthia D.
10/18/2019

I have been going to North Rivers for 10+ years, I have always received excellent care, the staff is helpful and very friendly.

Glenn J.
10/28/2019

Dr Cates is exceptionally talented in the dental profession. Everyone at North Rivers Dental are so helpful and friendly.

James T.
09/09/2019

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