Is It Normal to Experience Pain After a Root Canal?

Most people dread the idea of having a root canal. Why? Well, because of the myths that surround the procedure of course. One of the myths and perhaps the most common one is that a root canal is very painful.

The truth is that root canals help to alleviate pain, not cause it. The pain comes from an infected tooth. There are a lot of misunderstandings about root canals. Before we dive deep into some of this false information, let us first have a look at what the procedure entails.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a treatment that helps to preserve a natural tooth treating an infection of the pulp may be causing pain or discomfort. An endodontist typically performs the procedure. This is a specialist who cares for the inside of teeth. The doctor will drill a hole in the tooth, remove the pulp and apply medication. Once the root canal is returned, a temporary filling will also be put in to help the tooth heal.

Do you need treatment if there is no pain?

What most people do not realize is that not having any pain in their mouths does not mean that they will not need to have the procedure done. The only person who is qualified to make the call of whether or not a patient will need one is the dentist.

If a patient is wondering why they may not feel pain, it is because of the fistula (looks like a pimple) which is located near the problem tooth. This fistula helps to prevent pressure from building up, thus, preventing pain. Once it is removed, a root canal procedure will need to be performed.

Is treatment a permanent fix?

A patient should assume that a root canal treatment is all they need to sort out their problem tooth or teeth. Once the procedure has been performed, the patient will need to return for a crown or permanent filling.

Now that the basics of this procedure have been explained let us have a look at the three reasons why there may be some pain after treatment.

1. Inflammation in the surrounding area

People assume that once a root canal has been performed, they should no longer feel any more pain. However, this information is incorrect. For a few days after treatment, there may be inflammation around the treated tooth, and this can cause sensitivity. Speaking to the dentist about any pain or discomfort will help as they will be able to prescribe medication to help with the swelling and ultimately, reduce the pain

2. Temporary filling that is not smoothened out

Temporary filling not being smoothened out correctly or being too high compared to the surrounding natural teeth will give the patient a lot of pain. This is because it can cause a lot of pressure on that spot as the mouth will be biting harder.

3. The instrument used during procedure caused damage

Sometimes the dentist may have aggravated surrounding soft tissue during the treatment. This can result in the surrounding tissue being sensitive.

Root canals are commonly performed to save people’s natural teeth. Pain medication can be prescribed after treatment, so the procedure is nothing to be scared of. Contact one of our dentists to learn more about root canals.