Root canal therapy is the go-to procedure for moderate to severe dental infections. It involves removing the infected pulp, which is often necessary to save the tooth and keep the infection from spreading. The procedure is usually painless due to the local anesthetic used. However, pain after a root canal is surprisingly common.
In this blog, let’s learn about why you feel pain after a root canal and ways you can relieve the pain. We’ll also discuss any signs of complications signaling that you should seek professional dental help. Continue reading to know about the best ways to relieve post-root canal pain.
Reasons for Throbbing Pain After a Root Canal
Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp and relieves dental infections. However, while many patients expect instant relief after a root canal, the tooth can take some time to heal. Removing infected or inflamed tooth pulp can cause temporary inflammation in surrounding tissues and pain.
A tooth may remain sensitive for several days after the procedure, and teeth that were severely infected previously can cause prolonged inflammation as they heal. If a tooth had significant trauma before the root canal, it can also take longer to heal and cause more discomfort.
Teeth can be vulnerable to reinfection if the canals are not properly cleaned or sealed during the procedure, leading to persistent pain or reinfection.
Ways to Relieve Pain after Root Canal
Pain after a root canal can be persistent and frustrating to deal with without steps to alleviate it. Recurrent pain after getting a root canal requires a professional dental evaluation to treat the underlying cause. However, here are some strategies you can use to reduce the pain after a root canal.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Non-steroidal pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, to avoid health complications, it’s important not to exceed the recommended dosage. - Cold Compress
Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the treated area can help numb pain and reduce inflammation. Use it for 10-15 minutes at a time. - Clove Oil
Clove oil is nature’s anesthetic due to its analgesic properties. It can provide relief by numbing the affected area. - Avoid Hard Foods
Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side to avoid additional discomfort. Wait until sensitivity has decreased. - Saltwater Rinse
Gargling with warm salt water can provide relief by reducing bacteria and soothing inflamed tissue. However, make sure that the water is not too hot as it can damage the treated area. - Keep Your Head Raised
Don’t lie flat, and keep your head lifted while resting to minimize throbbing sensations due to increased blood flow to the area.
When to Seek Professional Dental Help
While some discomfort is expected after a root canal, certain signs could mean reinfection or pressing issues that require immediate dental help. If you experience persistent pain that lasts more than a few days or worsens instead of improving, it may be a sign of complications indicating reinfection or improperly sealed canals.
Additionally, any swelling around the gums or face and a fever prompt immediate dental attention as they are signs of an infection. Significant pain while chewing or applying pressure to the tooth could indicate an infection in the tooth or gums.
Takeaway
Pain after a root canal can be manageable with proper care and attention. However, it’s important to stay vigilant for signs such as persistent pain, swelling, or fever, as they could signal reinfection.
The best way to treat pain after a root canal is to have it evaluated by dental professionals such as the ones at Village Park Family Dental of Cypress. They can effectively treat the underlying causes of the pain. Dial (281) 376-4444 to schedule a consultation.