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Here are 5 simple steps to follow before you have a root canal or during your root canal recovery and a few root canal symptoms or situations that can cause you to need a root canal.
Most teeth that require a root canal were painful to begin with. It is perfectly normal for a tooth that has had endodontic therapy to be tender for a short time after the treatment has begun throughout the root canal recovery process. If the tooth was infected and antibiotics were prescribed by your dentist, the medication takes at least 24 to 48 hours after the medication regimen has begun.
When a tooth is infected and requires a root canal, the periodontal fibers that anchor the tooth to the bone are also irritated and stretched from infection around the roots of the tooth. The trauma of the fibers/ligaments being stretched can also be very painful and will need some time to heal during your root canal recovery. Ibuprofen, either over the counter or a stronger dosage prescribed by your dentist, has an anti-inflammatory action that will provide relief during the healing period. Gentle but thorough cleaning of the tooth and gums around a recently root canal treated area will create an environment for quickest healing and relief of discomfort and pain after root canal treatment from irritated gums.
Often, patients ask “does a root canal hurt”? “Ghost pain” after a tooth has had a root canal can be explained by the fact that nerves in the root of the tooth have been amputated from the major nerve that supplies all of the teeth along its pathway. In much the same way people who have had a limb removed report pain in the missing limb. The “ghost pain” diminishes over time and usually goes away completely. But, remember each situation is unique.
Often an infected tooth has been pushed slightly out of the socket by the infection accumulating at the root tips. The infected tooth is bearing more biting pressure than it can comfortably stand. Even if the tooth has had some reduction of its height taken off by the dentist, it may still be tender for a few days. Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw muscles (bruxing) contributes to pain after root canal treatment. A night guard or relaxation techniques to keep your teeth slightly apart, can contribute to a more comfortable dental state.
Staying with softer foods and chewing on the opposite side are helpful suggestions to reduce pain after root canal treatment. If the tooth does not become less sensitive after a few days, additional adjustment of the traumatic biting pressure may be needed by your dentist.
A tooth that has had a root canal is more brittle. Most of the time a tooth that needs a root canal had a large area of decay or a large old filling, so little of the original healthy tooth structure remains. A full crown to reinforce a more fragile endodontically-treated tooth is recommended as soon as possible after a root canal has been completed. If the tooth develops a crack or fractures, there can be pain associated with that unwanted occurrence.
The final step of a root canal is often placing a crown. Often times when a tooth needs a root canal, there is extensive decay or a large filling that was placed a long time ago. In order to restore the tooth to full function and also lessen further complications such as fracturing, a crown is placed.
If you live in Southern California, feel free to Schedule a New Patient Visit with us in Zak Dental offices in Agoura Hills, Covina/San Dimas, Downey, Long Beach, North Park, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Simi Valley, Temecula, Valencia, Ventura, and Whittier/La Mirada, California.
For all your dental needs, schedule an appointment by calling the Zak Dental office at 833-ZAK-TEAM.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or decay in the pulp of a tooth. During the procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Is a root canal painful?
With modern techniques and anesthesia, the actual root canal procedure should not be painful. Some discomfort or soreness after the procedure is normal, but it can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
What pain management options are available during a root canal?
Local anesthesia is commonly used to numb the area around the tooth being treated. In some cases, sedation dentistry techniques such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives may also be used to help patients relax during the procedure.
How long does the pain last after a root canal?
Pain or discomfort after a root canal procedure is usually mild and should improve within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate any discomfort.
Are there any risks or complications associated with root canal pain management?
Complications from root canal pain management are rare but can include allergic reactions to anesthesia, infection at the injection site, or accidental injury to surrounding tissues. These risks are minimized by proper techniques and precautions taken by experienced dental professionals.
What can I do to manage pain after a root canal?
Following your dentist’s post-procedure instructions is essential for managing pain after a root canal. This may include taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication, avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it has fully healed, and applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
When should I contact my dentist about pain after a root canal?
While some discomfort after a root canal is normal, you should contact your dentist if you experience severe or prolonged pain, swelling, fever, or any other unusual symptoms after the procedure. These could be signs of complications that require prompt attention.
Can I go back to work or resume normal activities after a root canal?
Most people can return to work or resume normal activities immediately after a root canal procedure. However, you may want to avoid strenuous activities or eating hard or crunchy foods until any discomfort has resolved.
How effective is root canal pain management?
When performed by a skilled dentist or endodontist and followed by proper post-procedure care, root canal pain management is highly effective in relieving tooth pain and preserving the natural tooth.
What are the alternatives to a root canal for managing tooth pain?
Alternatives to root canal treatment include tooth extraction or delaying treatment, which can lead to worsening infection and tooth loss. In most cases, root canal therapy is the preferred option for saving an infected or damaged tooth and relieving pain.
Remember, if you have any concerns or questions about root canal pain management, it’s always best to consult with your dentist or endodontist for personalized advice and treatment options.