If you’re facing a root canal, you’re probably wondering: how painful is it really? Root canals have a scary reputation—but thanks to modern dentistry, the reality is often much better than people expect.
Let’s break it down honestly using the pain scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is little to no pain and 10 is extreme, unbearable pain.
Before the Root Canal: Tooth Pain (Often 7–10)
Most people need a root canal because of:
- A deep cavity
- An infected or inflamed tooth pulp
- A cracked or broken tooth
This can cause intense toothache, often described as sharp, throbbing, or constant, especially when eating or drinking. Many patients rate this pain as a 7 to 10 on the scale.
During the Root Canal: Minimal Pain (Usually 1–3)
Thanks to local anaesthetic, most patients feel little to no pain during the actual procedure.
| Stage | Pain Level (1–10) | What It Feels Like |
|---|---|---|
| Local anaesthetic injection | 2–4 | Quick pinch, pressure for a few seconds |
| Cleaning the canal | 1–2 | No pain, just pressure or vibration |
| Root filling | 1–2 | Minimal sensation, no sharp pain |
Key point: The procedure itself is similar to getting a filling, just a bit longer.
After the Root Canal: Mild Discomfort (Around 2–5)
After the numbness wears off, it’s normal to feel:
- Tenderness or soreness in the jaw or gum
- Mild swelling or pressure pain
- Slight discomfort while chewing for a few days
Most people describe the post-procedure pain as a 2 to 5, and it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol.
When Pain Might Be Higher (6–8)
In rare cases, you might feel more discomfort if:
- The infection was severe
- The tooth was difficult to treat
- There’s inflammation or a reaction to the procedure
Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or stronger pain relief if needed.
Pain Comparison Summary
| Situation | Average Pain Rating (1–10) |
|---|---|
| Toothache before root canal | 7–10 |
| Root canal during procedure | 1–3 |
| Pain after root canal | 2–5 |
| Worst-case post-procedure pain | 6–8 (rare and temporary) |
FAQs About Root Canal Pain
1. Is a root canal more painful than a tooth extraction?
No. Most people find a root canal is less painful and has easier recovery than an extraction.
2. How long does the pain last after a root canal?
Usually 2 to 3 days, but sometimes up to a week. Pain should improve daily.
3. Can I go to work after a root canal?
Yes. Most patients return to normal activities the same or next day.
4. What if I’m scared of pain or needles?
Let your dentist know. They can explain the process, use numbing gel before injections, and help reduce anxiety.
5. Should I avoid eating after the procedure?
Wait until the numbness wears off, then eat soft foods on the opposite side for a day or two.
Conclusion
So, how bad does a root canal hurt on a scale from 1 to 10?
During the procedure: usually 1–3.
After: 2–5 for most people.
While the pain leading up to a root canal might be intense, the treatment itself is relatively painless and offers fast relief. With modern anaesthetics and skilled dentists, a root canal is more about comfort and healing than pain.
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