307-789-5608 When most people hear the words “root canal,” they imagine pain, discomfort and maybe even a long recovery. But here is the surprising, unvarnished truth: root canals are nothing like the scary stories you might have heard. In fact, they are one of the most important procedures in dentistry when it comes to saving natural teeth and preserving the smiles that come with them.
May is Root Canal Awareness Month—a dedicated time to spotlight how root canal treatment can save natural teeth, protect your smile and raise awareness. Also, Root Canal Day is on the second Wednesday of May, so there is no better time to focus on root canals and why you truly do not need to fear them.
What Is a Root Canal, Really?
A root canal is a procedure performed by an endodontist to remove infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of a tooth. After cleaning and disinfecting the canal, the endodontist fills and seals the space to prevent future infection. The goal is simple: save the natural tooth and relieve any associated pain or discomfort.
This process allows patients to keep their original tooth structure—something that is preferred over extracting and replacing a tooth, both for oral health and function.
The Truth About Root Canal Therapy
It is important to remember that root canals are not inherently painful. In fact, they relieve pain. The infection or inflammation inside the tooth is often what is causing the discomfort. Thanks to modern techniques, tools and anesthetics, most patients report that a root canal feels no more uncomfortable than getting a regular dental filling.
Additionally, endodontists, who specialize in root canal therapy, are trained to manage complex cases with precision and care. That means less stress for you—and a much better experience overall.
Why Awareness Matters
Far too often, people delay treatment out of fear, which only allows the problem to worsen. An untreated infection in the pulp of a tooth can lead to severe pain, swelling, abscess formation and eventual tooth loss. If caught early, root canal therapy can stop the infection in its tracks and restore the tooth to full function.
Awareness is the first step to prevention and early intervention. By recognizing the signs of trouble, such as lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, tenderness or a persistent toothache, you can seek care before the damage is irreversible.
Of course, we also cannot overlook the emotional toll that comes with losing a tooth. Smiles are personal, and nothing looks or feels quite like your natural teeth.
Endodontists: Experts in Saving Smiles
While general dentists handle a wide variety of oral health concerns, when it comes to saving a tooth that is infected, cracked or deeply decayed, an endodontist is your best ally. As endodontists, we undergo years of advanced training focused on the pulp and root canal systems of the teeth.
Our proven expertise means more accurate diagnoses, more effective treatment and better long-term outcomes. Whether you are experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need a root canal, consulting a skilled endodontist ensures you are in the best hands possible.
Facts: Did You Know?
- Over 15 million root canal treatments are performed in the U.S. every year.
- Endodontists complete an average of 25 root canals each week, while general dentists average far fewer.
- A tooth treated with root canal therapy and a proper crown can last a lifetime.
- Root canal therapy is highly effective, with the American Association of Endodontists noting that it achieves a success rate exceeding 95%.
Avoid Letting Fear Cost You a Tooth
If you are experiencing tooth pain, swelling or sensitivity, we caution you to avoid waiting for the problem to get worse. Modern endodontic care is safe, effective and designed to preserve your smile, not take it away.
Bottom Line? Choosing an endodontic specialist for expert care when facing tooth pain or trauma can help relieve your anxiety, along with your pain. Saving your natural tooth is not only possible—it is often the healthiest choice you can make for your smile.