Say the words “root canal” in a room full of people and watch the faces. Someone winces. Someone shares a horror story from a cousin’s friend. Someone swears they’d rather pull the tooth than go through it.
The odd part is that most of these fears come from stories, not from what the treatment is actually like today. Modern root canal treatment is designed to end tooth pain, not cause it. Yet many people in Punjab live with a throbbing tooth for weeks because they’re afraid of the very treatment that would help.
Let’s separate myth from fact so you can make a calm, informed decision.
First, What Is a Root Canal?
Inside every tooth is a soft core called the pulp. It contains nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or an injury lets bacteria reach the pulp, it becomes infected and inflamed. This causes the classic signs: severe pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, and sometimes swelling.
Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, and seals it. The tooth is then usually restored with a filling or a crown. The result is a tooth that stays in your mouth and no longer hurts.
You can read more about our approach on the Sushma Dental root canal treatment page.
Myth 1: “Root Canals Are Extremely Painful”
Fact: The infection is what hurts, not the treatment. Root canals are performed under local anaesthesia, and the aim is to relieve pain. You may feel pressure and some tenderness afterwards, which usually settles in a few days. Tell your dentist at any point if you feel discomfort, so they can adjust.
Myth 2: “It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Out”
Fact: Saving your natural tooth is usually the better option when it can be saved. Missing teeth can cause neighbouring teeth to drift, make chewing harder and may lead to costly replacements later. Extraction is sometimes necessary, but your dentist should explain why, and discuss alternatives.
Myth 3: “If It Doesn’t Hurt, I Don’t Need Treatment”
Fact: Pain isn’t a reliable guide. A tooth can have a dying nerve or a hidden infection with few or no symptoms. That is why regular check-ups and X-rays matter. By the time severe pain appears, the problem is often more advanced.
Myth 4: “Home Remedies Can Cure a Tooth Infection”
Fact: Cloves, salt-water rinses and painkillers may bring brief relief, but they can’t remove infected tissue inside the tooth. Relying on them can let the infection spread. If you have persistent tooth pain, see a dentist rather than waiting it out.
Myth 5: “Root Canal Treatment Makes You Sick”
Fact: This is an old claim that has been widely discussed online. Mainstream dental organisations do not support the idea that properly performed root canal treatment causes illness elsewhere in the body. Leaving an infection untreated is the bigger concern. For balanced patient information, see the American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy site.
Myth 6: “It Takes Many Painful Visits”
Fact: The number of visits depends on the tooth and the extent of infection. Some cases are completed in one or two visits, while complex ones may need more. Your dentist will explain what to expect.
Myth 7: “A Tooth With a Root Canal Is Weak and Will Fall Out”
Fact: After treatment, a tooth can be strengthened with a proper filling or crown, and many last for years with good care. Failure is more likely when the final restoration is delayed or the tooth isn’t protected. Follow your dentist’s advice about the crown.
Myth 8: “Root Canals Are Only for Old People”
Fact: Any age can need one. Children may need similar pulp treatment in baby teeth, and teenagers and young adults often need treatment after cavities or injuries. See our pediatric and kids’ dentistry page for how we care for younger patients.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
See a dentist soon if you notice:
- Tooth pain that lingers or wakes you at night
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts after the drink is gone
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A pimple-like bump on the gum
- Swelling in the face or gums
- A tooth that has darkened in colour
- A cracked or broken tooth
Swelling in the face, fever or trouble swallowing or opening your mouth needs urgent attention.
What Really Happens During a Root Canal?
Knowing the steps takes away much of the fear. A typical treatment looks like this:
- Examination and X-ray to see the shape of the roots and the extent of infection
- Local anaesthesia to numb the tooth and the surrounding area
- Access: A small opening is made in the tooth
- Cleaning: The infected pulp is removed and the canals are cleaned and shaped
- Sealing: The canals are filled and sealed
- Restoration: A filling or crown is placed to protect the tooth
Your dentist will explain the plan for your case, including the number of visits and the cost.
How to Look After Your Tooth Afterwards
- Avoid chewing hard food on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored
- Take any medicines exactly as prescribed
- Brush gently and floss as usual
- Return for the final filling or crown, since delaying it raises the risk of failure
- Attend follow-up visits
- Call the clinic if you have severe pain, swelling or a loose filling
Can You Avoid a Root Canal Altogether?
Often, yes. Most root canals begin with a cavity or crack that went untreated. These habits lower your risk:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Limit sugary snacks and sweet drinks
- Don’t chew ice, pen caps or hard objects
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth (see our night guard page)
- See your dentist every six months
The World Health Organization’s oral health fact sheet explains why prevention is so important.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a root canal take?
It varies. Some are done in one visit, others take more. Your dentist can estimate after examining the tooth.
Will I need a crown?
Often yes, especially for back teeth that handle heavy chewing forces. Your dentist will advise.
Can I eat after treatment?
Wait until the numbness wears off, and avoid hard foods on that side as advised.
What does it cost?
Cost depends on the tooth, its complexity and the restoration. You can ask for an estimate after an examination.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
Tell your dentist if you’re pregnant. Urgent dental problems are usually better treated than left, but your dentist will plan carefully.
Why Patients Visit Sushma Dental
Sushma Dental welcomes patients from Jalandhar and Phagwara for everything from check-ups to root canals, braces and cosmetic care. The aim is simple: explain things clearly, treat gently and give honest advice. [Add real details from the clinic: doctor names, qualifications, years of experience, equipment.]
Explore more on sushmadental.in, including braces and orthodontics and smile designing in Jalandhar and Phagwara.
The Bottom Line
A root canal isn’t a punishment. It’s a way to keep your own tooth and end the pain. The myths around it cause far more suffering than the treatment ever could. If you have a toothache that won’t go away, don’t wait for it to get worse. An early visit is simpler, cheaper and more comfortable.
👉 Book your appointment at Sushma Dental and get your tooth checked today.
Visit Sushma Dental
Jalandhar: Opposite Curo Mall, 66 Feet Road, Punjabi Bagh Extension, Ishar Puri Colony, Mithapur, Jalandhar, Punjab 144002 (from a third-party listing; please confirm)
Phagwara: near Civil Hospital, Chahal Nagar, Phagwara, Punjab 144401
Phone: [+91-8054404325 ]
Website: https://sushmadental.in/
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