Is Pain After a Root Canal Normal? What You Can Expect

If you are dealing with a major ache from an infected tooth, then your dentist will most likely recommend a root canal. This treatment clears out any damaged materials, but it has a strong reputation for causing more discomfort than relief. Thankfully, it can leave your smile pain-free, but like with any other procedure, you may feel a little sore afterward. Continue reading to learn how tenderness after a root canal is normal and if you need to call your dentist about it.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Many people dread their upcoming root canal because of stories they heard about it being painful. The good news is that modern techniques and anesthesia have made the process easier than ever. Your dentist ensures that you are fully numb and comfortable before starting the treatment. Once you give him the thumbs up, they create a small opening in your tooth to remove the infected inner pulp.

When the infection is cleared, they clean and sanitize the inside. Then they fill and seal it! You’ll need to get a dental crown to restore the lost structure, but the issue is gone, meaning your toothache will go away.

Is It Normal to Feel Sore After a Root Canal?

Since a powerful local anesthetic was used, it takes a few hours to wear off. When it does, you may feel a little sore where the root canal was performed. This is entirely normal, and you should start to feel it go away more as each day passes.

To make the healing process easier, over-the-counter medication can relieve some discomfort. Avoid hot, cold, acidic, spicy, or crunchy foods during your recovery as they can irritate your tooth. Additionally, be gentle when you brush and floss!

When Should I See My Dentist?

Some tenderness after a root canal is expected, but it should be mild and fade away on its own. That being said, if you start to experience persistent and worsening pain or swelling, then it’s best to call your dentist right away. Also, be aware of signs of infections like fatigue, fever, or chills.

In any case, if you’re worried about discomfort after a root canal, it should be minor and much more brief compared to the toothache you had before. Take the easy steps to help manage your soreness, and be sure to keep in mind when you should call your dentist. After a short recovery, you can go back to having a pain-free smile!

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Capehart earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Along with his team, Dr. Capehart takes pride in helping people have a grin that they can show off without any discomfort. By visiting him for a root canal, he ensures that you are comfortable throughout the entire process. If you want to learn more about how you can make your recovery easy, visit our website or call us at (972) 436-1325.