Pain after Root Canal, What to Expect, and When to Seek Help

One of the misconceptions you have heard about root canal treatment is that it causes extreme pain and discomfort. The truth is that modern dentistry advancements have made root canals no more painful than a dental filling. However, like any major treatment, you may experience post-treatment discomfort. Bella Hanono Family Dentistry explains what to expect after a root canal and when to seek help.

What to expect after a root canal

The root canal treatment in itself isn’t painful. We use modern anesthetics with light touch techniques to eliminate discomfort during treatment. However, some discomfort is expected after the procedure, especially when the anesthesia wears off.

Your treatment site will remain tender and sore, accompanied by a dull ache for about 24-48 hours. Keep in mind the reason you had a root canal is because of an infection. This might have caused swelling, inflammation, and pain, which will subside over time as you heal.

While pain after a root canal is normal, there are steps you can take to minimize the discomfort. Dr. Bella Hanono advises you to follow the tips below to manage post-root canal pain:

• Take the recommended pain and antibacterial medication
• Drink plenty of water
• Rest until the pain subsides
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Rinse your mouth with warm, salty water after meals
• Observe optimal oral hygiene but be gentle around the treated tooth

You don’t need hospitalization after endodontic treatment — the above home remedies are enough to put you on a path of recovery. Within a few days, your treated tooth should feel normal and function without pain.

When is root canal pain not normal?

Pain after a root canal is expected, but it should subside within a few days. However, please notify your dentist immediately if you notice the symptoms below:

• Severe discomfort that disrupts your everyday activities
• Pain and swelling that won’t subside
• Redness around the treated tooth
• Pus-filled abscesses around the treated tooth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity

While root canals are generally successful, some cases need retreatment due to recurrent bacterial infection, poorly sealed canals, and missed canals. Please inform your dentist immediately if you notice your signs aren’t improving after root canal treatment.

Root canal services near me

Think you need a root canal in Alpharetta, GA? Don’t delay treatment. The earlier your tooth is treated, the higher the chances of successful treatment. Please dial (770) 343-4052 to schedule an appointment with Bella Hanono Family Dentistry.

Dr. Bella Hanono, DDS
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Dr. Bella Hanono, the founder of Bella Hanono Family Dentistry, has over 25 years of experience in the industry. Her goal is to promote her patients’ oral health and well-being.

She is an alumnus of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (Doctor of Dental Surgery), University of Texas (Master of Public Health), and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Georgia Dental Association, Northern District of Georgia Dental Association, Hinman Dental Society, Gnathos, Seattle Study Club, and Hispanic Dental Association.

Dr. Hanono regularly attends continuous education courses to keep abreast with the latest trends in dentistry.

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