Is Dental Treatment Painful? What to Expect During Common Procedures

For many people, the fear of pain is the biggest reason for avoiding the dentist. At Hermitage Dental in Practice, we understand this concern and want to reassure you that modern dental treatments are designed to be as comfortable as possible.

Modern Techniques Make Dental Care Comfortable

Thanks to advances in dentistry, most procedures are virtually painless. Our team uses local anaesthetics, gentle techniques, numbing cream to ensure your comfort. You’ll be guided through every step, so you know exactly what to expect.

What You’ll Actually Feel During Common Procedures

Here’s a breakdown of what you might experience during routine treatments:

Fillings

• What it treats: Cavities and minor tooth decay.

• What to expect: A small numbing injection may be given. Most patients feel little more than mild pressure as the decay is removed and the filling placed.

Root Canals

• What it treats: Infection or damage in the tooth pulp.

• Common myth: “Root canals are excruciating.”

• Reality: With modern anaesthetic, root canals are no more painful than a filling. You may feel some pressure or vibration, but pain is rare.

Extractions

• What it treats: Severely damaged or problematic teeth.

• What to expect: Local anaesthetic makes the area numb. You may feel some pulling or pressure, but the procedure itself should not be painful. Post-treatment, you’ll receive clear aftercare instructions to minimise discomfort.

  
  

Dental Implants

• What it treats: Replacing missing teeth.

• What to expect: Surgery is performed under local anaesthetic. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure and manageable soreness afterwards, very similar to what you would experience after an extraction.

  
  

Tips to Make Your Visit Even More Comfortable

• Communicate openly: Tell your dentist if you’re anxious. We can adjust techniques and give you coping techniques to make your experience a pleasant one.

• Follow pre-appointment instructions: For certain procedures, we may give guidance to reduce sensitivity or discomfort. Its also important that you eat before attending any dental treatment appointment. Skipping a meal before dental treatment can make you feel light - headed, dizzy or even faint. A hungry body doesn't handle stress (or needles) very well. Recovery starts better when you're nourished, you wont be able to eat for a few hours afterwards.

• Take care post-treatment: Pain or swelling can often be managed with over-the-counter remedies and proper care.

  
  

Why You Shouldn’t Let Fear Hold You Back

Avoiding dental care due to fear can lead to more serious problems down the line, which often require more invasive treatment. At Hermitage Dental Practice, our priority is to make every visit as stress-free and pain-free as possible, so you can maintain a healthy, confident smile.

If you’d like to discuss your options or learn more about what to expect during a procedure, contact our team today or book a complimentary appointment with one of your lovely treatment co-ordinators online who can guide you through the process. Your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities.