Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 11/12/2008

Question
Hello Dr.Schwartz
My dentist was trying to complete my root canal yesterday-and numbed the area quite a few times- when he placed the files in my tooth...I about hit the ceiling with the pain on the nerve- I'm seeing a endodontist on Thur-because my dentist was not able to completely numb the tooth-It's always difficult to numb ANY of my teeth for dental work- will the endodontist be able to completely numb the tooth-will numbing the bone work or can I expect more pain?? BTW- I had no infection in my tooth- just a sudden on and off pain in the tooth-that I had a crown put on 4 months ago- that led to a root canal. I'm very, very nervous!!

Answer
Hi Melissa,

The endodontist should have a few more methods of making the tooth numb. He can also numb the bone around the tooth, to prevent you from feeling any sensitivity. Hopefully, you'll be okay during the procedure.

Worst case scenario, they may need to give you some laughing gas to help numb the area. But hopefully, with his advanced training, you will be numb with no problems! ;)

Good luck!
Please let me know if you need more help.