Crowns & Restorative Dentistry
Root Canals: Myths vs. Facts
· 3 min read · Reviewed by the Healthy Smiles California clinical team

Quick answer
Root Canals: Myths vs. Facts
A modern root canal feels much like getting a filling. It removes infected tissue inside the tooth, relieves pain and saves the natural tooth, which is usually then protected with a crown.
Reviewed by the Healthy Smiles California clinical team · Updated October 12, 2026
Myth: root canals hurt
With modern anesthetic, most patients feel only pressure.
Myth: extraction is better
Saving your natural tooth is usually the best option.
After treatment
A crown protects the tooth for years.
This article is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Every mouth is different — book an exam for advice specific to you.
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