6 interesting facts about root canal therapy

If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you might feel nervous or unsure about what lies ahead. You’re not alone—root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood dental procedures. However, it’s a treatment that can save your natural tooth, alleviate pain, and prevent further oral health issues.

To ease your concerns and give you a clearer understanding of the procedure, we’ve compiled six fascinating and reassuring facts about root canal therapy.

1. Root canal therapy relieves pain, it doesn’t cause it

One of the most common myths about root canal therapy is that the procedure itself is painful. The truth? Root canal therapy is designed to relieve pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth pulp.

An untreated infection can lead to excruciating pain, swelling, and even abscess formation. Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth, effectively eliminating the source of your discomfort. Thanks to modern anesthetics and advanced techniques, most patients describe the experience as no more uncomfortable than getting a standard dental filling.

2. Root canals save teeth that would otherwise need extraction

When a tooth becomes severely decayed or damaged, extraction may seem like the only option. But root canal therapy offers a way to save your natural tooth, helping you avoid the long-term consequences of tooth loss.

Keeping your natural teeth is essential for maintaining proper chewing function, preserving jawbone density, and preventing the misalignment of surrounding teeth. With a root canal, your tooth stays in place, fully functional, and protected by a custom dental crown for lasting durability.

3. The procedure is more comfortable than people think

Forget the scary stories you’ve heard—root canal therapy is a much more comfortable experience than its reputation suggests. Advances in dental technology and patient care have come a long way. Dentists now use powerful local anesthesia to keep the area completely numb throughout the procedure.

What about after the procedure? Most patients report that any residual discomfort is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You’ll likely feel immediate relief from the tooth pain that brought you into the office in the first place.

4. Root canals have a high success rate

Root canal therapy boasts an impressive long-term success rate, with studies showing success rates as high as 95%. When performed by a skilled endodontist and followed up with good oral hygiene, the treated tooth can last a lifetime.

The key to this success is the careful cleaning and sealing of the tooth to prevent bacteria from re-entering. Dentists and endodontists also monitor treated teeth over time to ensure ongoing health and functionality.

5. Modern technology makes root canals more efficient

Gone are the days of lengthy, uncomfortable root canal procedures. Today’s dental practices are equipped with cutting-edge technology to make the process faster, more precise, and gentler for patients.

For example, specialized imaging tools allow endodontists to get detailed visuals of the affected tooth, ensuring every stage of the treatment is thorough. Sophisticated equipment like the GentleWave® machine can remove infected tissue with remarkable accuracy, preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.

At Granbury Endodontics, we’re always at the forefront of advancements in dental care, ensuring that your experience is as smooth as it can be.

6. Recovery is usually quick and easy

Another great benefit of root canal therapy? The recovery process is typically straightforward. Most patients can return to work and resume their normal activities the day after the procedure.

You might experience mild swelling or tenderness, but this subsides quickly with proper care. By following your dentist’s recovery instructions—like avoiding hard foods for the first few days while the tooth heals—your recovery will be as smooth as possible.

The long-term benefit is a healthy tooth protected by a crown, sparing you from future dental complications or more invasive procedures down the line.

If you're experiencing prolonged tooth pain, Granbury Endodontics is here to help

Root canal therapy isn’t just about saving a tooth—it’s about improving your oral health, relieving pain, and preserving your natural smile. The myths surrounding the procedure simply don’t hold up against the facts. From its pain-relieving benefits to its high success rate, root canal therapy is a treatment you can trust.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have concerns about your oral health, don’t wait. Contact us at Granbury Endodontics, where our experienced team is dedicated to providing comfort-focused care with state-of-the-art technology. Saving your smile has never been easier.