The Short Answer
The pain people associate with root canals usually comes from the infection itself — not the treatment. By the time a tooth needs a root canal, the nerve inside is often inflamed or dying, which can cause intense, throbbing pain. The procedure removes that infected tissue, which is why most patients feel relief rather than pain afterwards. During treatment, the area is completely numbed, so you should feel only pressure, never sharp pain.
Myth vs Reality
Myth: "A root canal is the most painful thing a dentist can do."
Reality: This idea dates back decades, before modern anaesthetics and rotary instruments existed. Studies today consistently show that patients who have had a root canal describe it as comparable to a routine filling. The lingering reputation is far worse than the current experience.
Myth: "It's better to just pull the tooth — it's cheaper and easier."
Reality: Extraction may seem simpler, but losing a natural tooth creates new problems. The gap can cause neighbouring teeth to shift and the jawbone to shrink over time. Replacing a missing tooth later with a bridge or dental implant usually costs significantly more than saving it. If you are weighing your options, read our guide on root canal vs extraction.
Myth: "If my tooth stops hurting, I don't need the root canal anymore."
Reality: When the nerve fully dies, the pain can disappear — but the infection is still there and continues to spread to the bone, often forming an abscess. A pain-free infected tooth is not a healed tooth. If you are noticing warning signs, see our article on signs you need a root canal.
What Actually Happens During a Root Canal
Knowing the steps removes a lot of the fear. A straightforward root canal usually follows this sequence:
- Numbing: Local anaesthetic is applied so the tooth and surrounding gum are completely numb before anything begins.
- Isolation: A small protective sheet (rubber dam) keeps the tooth clean and dry.
- Cleaning: The dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth and disinfects the canals.
- Filling: The cleaned canals are sealed with a rubber-like material to prevent re-infection.
- Restoration: The tooth is rebuilt, often with a dental crown to protect it long-term, since a treated tooth can become brittle.
For a fuller walkthrough, read what to expect during a root canal.
What About Pain After the Procedure?
It is normal for the tooth to feel tender for a few days, especially when biting down. This is the body healing, not a sign that something has gone wrong. Most people manage it comfortably with over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. You can help recovery along by:
- Avoiding chewing directly on the treated tooth until the permanent crown or filling is placed
- Sticking to softer foods for the first day or two
- Continuing to brush and floss gently around the area
- Taking painkillers as directed rather than waiting for discomfort to build
Severe pain, swelling, or discomfort that worsens after several days is uncommon — contact your dentist if this happens.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost in Singapore?
Cost depends on which tooth is treated and how many canals it has — front teeth are simpler than molars. At Trust Dental Surgery, we explain the full fee before any treatment begins, with no surprises. Patients aged 60 and above can use Flexi-MediSave (up to $200 per year before GST 9%) towards root canal treatment. For a detailed breakdown, see our guide on root canal cost in Singapore.
The bottom line: a root canal is a routine, well-tolerated treatment that saves your natural tooth and ends the pain of infection. Delaying it is what leads to the severe pain people fear — so the earlier it's done, the more comfortable the whole experience.