Common Root Canal Myths Canadians Should Stop Believing
Root canals have a bad reputation. A lot of that comes from old stories and outdated information. Today’s treatment is safer, faster, and more comfortable than most people think. In many cases, it’s the best way to stop an infection and save your natural tooth.
This guide clears up the biggest myths Canadians hear about root canals. You’ll learn what to expect, why a crown often follows treatment, how long results last, and the warning signs to watch for after you heal.
What is the truth about root canal pain?
With modern anesthesia and gentle techniques, most people say a root canal feels similar to getting a regular filling. The procedure relieves pain from infection. Mild soreness after is common and short term. Call your dentist if pain worsens.
Myth 1 Root canals are very painful
This is the most common myth. Years ago, root canals were harder to numb and took longer. That’s not the case now. Canadian dentists use advanced local anesthesia to block pain. Many also offer comfort extras like noise-cancelling headphones and, when appropriate, sedation options for anxious patients.
“With modern techniques and anesthesia, most people report that they’re comfortable during a root canal procedure.” — American Dental Association, MouthHealthy
What you’ll feel
You’ll feel the freezing needle pinch and a little pressure while the dentist works. You should not feel sharp pain. Afterward, the area may be tender for a day or two. Over-the-counter pain medicine usually handles it.
If you want a bigger picture on pain myths and modern care, see our common root canal myths debunked resource.
Myth 2 Root canals cause illness
Decades-old claims said root canals could cause disease in the rest of the body. Modern research does not support this. There’s no proven link between root canal treatment and systemic illness like heart disease or arthritis. In fact, leaving an infected tooth untreated is the real risk. Infection can spread to your jaw and, in rare cases, to other parts of your body.
Why treatment protects your health
A root canal removes the infected pulp (the tooth’s inner tissue) and seals the space so bacteria can’t return. This helps your body heal and keeps the infection from spreading.
For a broader look at the facts, read our Canadian-focused overview of myths vs facts about root canals in Canada.
Myth 3 It’s better to pull the tooth than get a root canal
Savings matter, but so does long-term health. When possible, keeping a natural tooth is almost always the better choice. Your tooth roots keep your jawbone stimulated and strong. Removing a tooth can lead to shifting teeth, bite changes, chewing trouble, and higher lifetime costs to replace that tooth with a bridge or implant.
When extraction is considered
Sometimes a tooth can’t be saved due to severe fracture, decay below the gum line, or limited remaining structure. Your dentist will explain your options. But if a root canal can keep your natural tooth, it’s usually the smarter long-term decision.
Myth 4 Root canals don’t last
With proper treatment and care, a root canal can last many years—often decades. Success rates are high. Long-term studies show strong outcomes when the canal system is well cleaned, sealed, and protected with a quality restoration.
What protects your investment
After a root canal, molars and premolars usually need a crown. These teeth do the heavy chewing and can become brittle after treatment. A crown covers the tooth like a helmet, lowering the risk of cracks and future problems. Front teeth may need only a strong filling if enough structure remains.
Myth 5 Root canals always take multiple visits
Not always. Many root canals are completed in a single visit. It depends on the tooth, the infection, and the tools your dentist uses. Complex cases, severe infections, or special cleaning needs sometimes require two visits. Your dentist will guide you on what’s safest for your tooth.
Modern tools help
Digital imaging, rotary instruments, and precision irrigation systems help dentists clean and shape canals more efficiently. These advances are a big reason why many root canals are now completed faster and more comfortably than in the past.
Myth 6 You only need a root canal if you have pain
Infection doesn’t always hurt. You might have little or no pain even if the nerve is inflamed or dying. Clues can show up on X-rays, or your dentist may find a pimple-like bump on the gum (a sign of a draining abscess). That’s why regular checkups matter.
Common signs to watch
Lingering sensitivity to heat or cold, pain on biting, swelling, gum tenderness, tooth darkening, or a bad taste in your mouth can all point to a problem inside the tooth. If you’re unsure what your symptoms mean, review the signs you may need a root canal and book an exam.
What happens during a root canal
Here’s a simple overview so you know what to expect.
Step by step
First, your dentist numbs the area. They place a small barrier to keep the tooth clean and dry. A tiny opening is made to reach the inner canals, which are then cleaned and disinfected to remove bacteria and damaged tissue. The canals are filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. Finally, the opening is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. If you need a crown, it’s planned next.
How long it takes
Most single-root front teeth take less time than multi-root molars. Total time varies from about an hour to two hours for many cases. Your dentist will let you know if a second visit is needed.
Why a crown is often recommended after a root canal
Back teeth take heavy chewing forces. After a root canal, they can be more likely to crack without extra support. A custom crown covers the tooth to restore strength and function. It also seals and protects the tooth from future fracture.
When a filling is enough
Front teeth often don’t need a crown if enough healthy structure remains. Your dentist will judge the size of the hole, your bite, and your habits (like grinding) to choose the best option.
How to care for your tooth after treatment
You’ll likely have mild tenderness for a day or two. Chew on the other side until your permanent filling or crown is placed. Brush and floss as usual. Take any prescribed medication as directed. Call your clinic if pain worsens or swelling appears.
Follow-up and warning signs
Schedule your crown promptly if it’s recommended. Call your dentist if you notice increasing pain, swelling, a new pimple on the gum, or pain that returns after initially improving. These can be signs that something needs attention.
Root canal vs extraction and replacement
Extraction may look cheaper at first. But replacing a missing tooth with an implant or bridge costs more than protecting a root canal tooth with a crown in many cases. Keeping your natural tooth also helps keep your bite balanced and your jawbone healthy.
When to see a specialist
Some teeth have extra canals, tricky curves, or prior treatment that makes them complex. Your dentist may refer you to an endodontist (a root canal specialist) who uses microscopes and special tools to treat difficult cases.
Recovery timeline and success
Most people feel normal chewing within a few days after the final restoration. Success rates are high, especially when you protect the tooth with the right restoration and keep up with checkups and cleanings. Good home care matters too—twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing.
If you’d like more comfort tips and a quick recap of the biggest myths, check our readable guide to common root canal myths debunked.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment stops infection and saves teeth. Thanks to modern anesthesia and techniques, the procedure is often no more uncomfortable than a filling. There’s no solid evidence that root canals cause illness. With the right restoration and routine care, results can last for many years. If your dentist recommends a root canal—even if you aren’t in pain—ask questions, review your options, and plan the crown or filling that will protect your tooth for the long term.
FAQ
Are root canals painful?
Most are not. Numbing makes the procedure comfortable for most people. You may feel pressure and vibration, but not sharp pain. Mild soreness after is common and short-lived. If you’re very anxious, ask about sedation options.
Can a root canal make me sick?
No. Current evidence shows no link between root canal treatment and systemic disease. Untreated infections are the bigger health risk. A root canal removes the infection and helps your body heal.
Can a root canal be done in one visit?
Often, yes. Many cases are completed in a single visit. More complex infections or tooth anatomy may need two. Your dentist will choose the safest plan for your tooth.
Do I always need a crown after a root canal?
Back teeth usually do, because they take heavy chewing forces and can be brittle. A crown lowers the risk of cracks. Front teeth may only need a strong filling if enough structure remains.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Lingering hot or cold sensitivity, pain when chewing, swelling, a gum pimple, or a darkening tooth are common signs. Some teeth have no pain at all. See the full list of signs you may need a root canal and book a checkup.
What are signs of failure and what should I do?
New or worsening pain, swelling, a bad taste, or a gum pimple can signal a problem. Call your dentist. Many issues can be resolved with bite adjustment, a new restoration, or retreatment by a specialist if needed.
