8 Reasons You Can Have Pain After A Root Canal

Root canal therapy is often a lifesaver for saving teeth that are infected or damaged. But just because the procedure is designed to alleviate pain doesn’t mean you won’t experience some discomfort afterward.

In fact, it’s not uncommon to feel pain or sensitivity after root canal therapy. While this is usually temporary, understanding the potential causes can help you manage your recovery and know when it’s time to reach out to a dentist.

Unpacking Root Canal Discomfort: Common Causes of Post-Treatment Pain

1. Normal Healing Process

First and foremost, some discomfort after root canal therapy is part of the normal healing process. The procedure involves cleaning the inside of your tooth, removing infected tissue, and sealing the area. As your body heals, it’s common to experience soreness, swelling, or tenderness in the treated area. This pain typically subsides within a few days to a week as your body adjusts.

2. Inflammation Around the Tooth

After a root canal, inflammation around the tooth is common. The tissue in your gums and surrounding bone may become inflamed due to the procedure, leading to discomfort. This inflammation can cause sensitivity to pressure, hot, or cold temperatures. While this should gradually improve, it’s essential to follow a dentist’s aftercare instructions to manage the discomfort effectively.

3. Residual Infection

In some cases, the infection may not be entirely cleared from the root of the tooth during the procedure. A lingering infection can continue to cause pain and sensitivity. If this happens, it might be necessary to perform additional treatments, such as retreatment or antibiotics, to eliminate the infection fully.

4. Overfilling or Underfilling

During root canal therapy in Phoenix, the dentist fills the empty space inside the tooth with a material to seal it and prevent further infection. If the filling is too large (overfilling) or too small (underfilling), it can cause pressure or irritation, leading to discomfort. A dentist will check the filling and make adjustments if necessary.

5. Tooth and Nerve Damage

While the goal of root canal therapy is to save the tooth, in some cases, the nerve inside the tooth may still be irritated or damaged. If the nerve wasn’t entirely removed or if there was additional damage during the procedure, it can cause lingering pain. However, this issue is relatively rare, and a dentist can often correct it with additional treatment.

6. Bruising and Swelling

Like any dental procedure, root canal therapy can result in some bruising or swelling in the gums and surrounding tissues. This can happen as a natural response to the procedure. In some cases, swelling can make the area tender to touch or chew, but it usually resolves within a few days with proper care.

7. Referred Pain

Sometimes, pain that seems to come from the treated tooth actually originates from other parts of your mouth or jaw. This phenomenon, known as referred pain, can occur due to the nerves around the tooth being affected during the procedure. Although this pain isn’t caused directly by the root canal itself, it can contribute to the overall discomfort you feel afterward.

8. Dental Anxiety or Tension

It’s also important to consider that stress and dental anxiety can contribute to pain or discomfort after a root canal. If you were tense during the procedure, you may experience muscle soreness in your jaw or face. Additionally, the emotional stress of undergoing a root canal can make you more sensitive to pain.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, approximately 90% of root canal treatments are successful, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort following the procedure. However, for the remaining 10%, additional treatment may be necessary to resolve complications.

How To Manage Pain After Root Canal Therapy?

Now that you know why you might experience pain, here are some simple steps you can take to manage discomfort and aid in your recovery:

• Use Ice Packs: Applying a cold compress to your face near the treated area can reduce swelling and numb the pain.
  
• Take Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to follow a dentist’s recommendations on what’s best for you.
  
• Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods for a few days after the procedure to avoid putting pressure on the treated tooth.
  
• Keep the Area Clean: Gently brush your teeth, avoiding the treated area, to keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection.

When To Contact A Dentist

While some discomfort is normal, it’s important to stay in touch with a dentist, especially if the pain doesn’t improve or if it becomes more severe. Severe pain, swelling, or fever could indicate an infection or other complication that requires immediate attention.

Pain after root canal therapy is relatively common, and most of the time, it’s temporary. By understanding the potential causes and taking the right steps for recovery, you can ensure that your root canal heals as smoothly as possible.

If you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist. With the right care, you can enjoy the long-term benefits of a healthy, restored tooth.