I'm having a root canal done this month...my first and hopefully my last. I have heard one horror story after another all directed to one word...PAIN. Has anyone had one recently and have the techniques changed to minimize the discomfort? Any input is appreciated.

The last root canal I had was about a year ago. The endodontist made sure the tooth was completely numb, so there was no pain during the procedure. I had a little soreness afterwards, but it was easily relieved by ibuprofen.

I hope this helps. Good luck to you.

Thanks Michelle. I needed that. Doesn't sound as bad as they say !

My post-canal pain hasn't been bad at all. mainly I feel it during the first appointment. My re-treatment(root canal repeated in the tooth) was a bit more painful and caused more swelling, due to the infection outside the root, but I don't know if that's typical.

A lot of it depends on the condition of the tooth esp. the presense of infection and how bad, and it's different for each tooth, but most people I talked to haven't experienced anything more than some soreness, which is usually from the connective tissue between the tooth and jaw.

I had a root canal a little over two years ago on a molar I had cracked from grinding my teeth. I was so scared because, like you, I had heard all the horror stories. I went and saw a specialist and it was fairly easy. He gave me about 3-4 needles, and he did the procedure in 2 appts. I had no pain afterwards, my jaw was sore just from staying open. It was more exhausting than anything. I do think I may have to have another one done because I have another cracked molar. This time though, I won't wait until I am in agonizing pain. The root canal isn't that bad to keep putting off.