Hearing the term "root canal" often causes anxiety, but the procedure is far less daunting than it sounds. Here's what you can expect during a root canal treatment:

• Before the Procedure: Your dentist will examine the affected tooth, take X-rays, and administer local anesthesia to ensure a painless experience.
• During the Procedure: The dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean the canals, and seal them with a special filling material.
• After the Procedure: You may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Final Restoration: A crown or filling is placed to protect and restore the tooth’s function.

Root canal treatments save millions of teeth annually and are a reliable way to relieve pain and prevent tooth loss.