I've had 4 root canals (one had to be re-done!) and they're sucky, but the improvement in the pain makes it SO worth it. I also have mostly crowns in the back now - super expensive, but also worth it (as opposed to the old fillings that fall apart and necessitate the root canals).

My last root canal came right after El Tour several years ago - I was head coach for TNT for the event and I was utterly miserable before and during the century. Alleve helped a little.

Good luck!