When people are told that they need a root canal treatment,they usually think about pain.However, the pain they feel is caused by an infection in the tooth,not by root canal treatment.A root canal is done to eliminate that pain.The root canal procedure itself is painless.A local anesthetic numbs the tooth and the surrounding area.Many people may be afraid to have a root canal because they are anxious about having dental work done. Dentists can provide calming medicines, such as nitrous oxide.