When comparing the pain associated with a third molar (wisdom tooth) extraction and a root canal treatment, it's important to understand the different nature of these procedures.

1. Third Molar (Wisdom Tooth) Extraction:

• Pain During Procedure: Wisdom tooth extractions, especially for impacted teeth, can be more invasive and require oral surgery. However, during the procedure, local anesthesia or sedation is used, so you should feel minimal to no pain.
• Pain After Procedure: Post-operative pain is common and can be significant, especially if the extraction was complicated. The discomfort usually peaks within a few days and may last for about a week. Swelling, bruising, and difficulty opening the mouth are also common. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications.

2. Root Canal Treatment:

• Pain During Procedure: A root canal is performed to remove the infected pulp from a tooth, often because the tooth is causing significant pain due to infection or damage. Local anesthesia is used, so the procedure itself should be relatively painless. Advances in dentistry have made root canals much more comfortable than their reputation suggests.
• Pain After Procedure: Some mild discomfort or sensitivity might occur after a root canal, but it is usually less intense compared to the pain after a wisdom tooth extraction. The discomfort generally subsides within a few days, and it can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Which is More Painful?

• Immediate Pain: Most patients report that the pain after a wisdom tooth extraction is more intense and lasts longer than after a root canal.
• Pre-Procedure Pain: The pain leading up to the procedure might also influence your perception. A root canal is often performed on a tooth that's already causing significant pain due to infection, which can make the relief post-procedure feel more pronounced.

In summary, while both procedures can involve discomfort, many people find that the pain associated with a wisdom tooth extraction is more intense and longer-lasting compared to the mild post-operative discomfort typically experienced after a root canal.