Is Pain After a Root Canal Normal?

Sometimes the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth can enter the pulp of the tooth and cause infection. When this happens, your dentist will perform a root canal in order to remove the infected pulp and save your tooth.

If this is your first time getting a root canal, you may wonder what you can expect during the procedure and the level of discomfort you may experience after. 

Here's what you need to know. 

What Is a Root Canal Procedure?

When the dentist performs a root canal treatment, it’s to relieve the pain caused by an infected tooth or an abscess. The damaged pulp is removed, and the surface inside the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. Lastly, the dentist will fill the hole with a special filling that will seal the area. 

The need for having a root canal appears when the bacteria has attacked the pulp inside the tooth, usually because a cavity was not treated on time. Another reason for needing a root canal is when a tooth has been damaged or cracked after an incident. 

Signs You Need a Root Canal

If you start experiencing symptoms like the ones described below, make an appointment with your dentist. You might need a root canal intervention. 

• Persistent tooth pain 
• Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
• Swollen gum
• Pimples or boils on the gums 
• Swollen jaw
• Tooth discoloration 
• Pain when you apply pressure 
• Chipped, cracked, or loose tooth

Is Pain After Root Canal Normal?

Root canal procedures are important, major dental treatments. Feeling some pain after the treatment is completely normal.

Don't worry about the therapy, though. Root canals nowadays are almost pain-free. The dentist will use local anesthesia to numb your mouth, so you won't feel almost anything. You might feel pressure, but no pain.

After the procedure is over, you can experience mild pain or discomfort that can be treated with over-the-counter medication. You also need to be careful when you eat so you do not put too much pressure on the tooth. 

There are many things you can do to manage pain both before and after a root canal. Talk to your dentist about the options you have and choose the one that is better suited for your case. 

Know When to Look for Help After a Root Canal

As we said, some degree of pain after a root canal is normal. This pain should decrease slowly to the point where it would be gone in a couple of days. 

But if you still feel intense pain and swelling, it is better to visit your doctor and determine what the issue is. Most root canal treatments require two visits to be completed. 

Your dentist might also recommend a dental crown in order to protect your tooth, as now it is more sensitive and delicate. 

At Woburn Dental Associates, we offer each patient the level of care and attention they need. We first try to understand your needs before proceeding with the treatment. 

Get in touch with us and let’s meet in person.