any dental professions here?! do root canals hurt.

Anon
So back when I had my braces off 10 years ago we noticed my top front tooth was turning grey and very sensitive. I don't remember everything, I was 12, but I remember them saying eventually it may need a root canal. Shortly after, the pain stopped and my tooth turned pearly white again. I've had no issues up until yesterday when it became very sensitive to temperatures. And today it is worse. I'm hoping just did something to aggravate it or I clenched my teeth too hard at night and it'll go away. If I do need a root canal? Does it hurt? I've had all 4 wisdom teeth out and it was the worst pain I've ever felt to date. Will I look like a damn hillbilly? I take such pride in my teeth. I'm so upset.