Root Canal Blues: Overcoming Ongoing Tooth Pain

Since a root canal is an effective procedure, pain is to be expected. A root canal involves deep cleaning inside your tooth’s canals (the inner chamber of the root), which can irritate surrounding nerves and gums.

The agony should not last indefinitely. In fact, a root canal is designed to relieve pain caused by a decaying or fractured tooth. It is normal to feel mild to moderate discomfort for a few days following a root canal. Any pain that persists after this point may necessitate additional canal cleaning or other procedures from your dentist.

Causes of Persistent Tooth Pain After a Root Canal

Here are the reasons why your teeth may still hurt after a root canal:

• Infection: If the root canal procedure does not successfully remove all of the infected tissue from the tooth, the infection may persist and cause ongoing pain.
• Inflammation: Inflammation in the tooth or surrounding tissue can cause ongoing pain. This may be due to the root canal procedure or other factors such as diet, oral hygiene, or underlying health conditions.
• Nerve damage: In some cases, the nerve tissue inside the tooth may be damaged during the root canal procedure, leading to ongoing pain.
• Fracture: If the tooth has become fractured after the root canal procedure, it can cause ongoing pain.

Symptoms to Look Out for After a Root Canal

There are specific symptoms that you should look out for and report to your dental professional at Smile Craft Dental as soon as possible, as they may indicate a problem with the root canal treatment:

• Persistent or severe pain: If the pain persists or becomes severe after the root canal procedure, it may be a sign and symptom of an underlying issue that must be addressed.
• Swelling: Swelling in the gums or face after a root canal is normal to some extent, but if the swelling is excessive or does not go away after a few days, it may be a sign and symptom of an infection or other issue.
• Drainage: If you notice drainage or pus coming from the root canal site, it could signify an infection.
• Fever: A fever after a root canal may indicate an infection.
• Numbness: If you experience numbness in your jaw, lip, or tongue after a root canal, it could be a sign of nerve damage.

How to Prevent Persistent Pain After a Root Canal

You can prevent persistent pain after a root canal by following these steps:

• Follow your dental professional’s instructions: After the root canal procedure, your dental professional will provide you with instructions for caring for the treated tooth and managing any pain or discomfort
• Practice good oral hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is crucial for preventing infections and maintaining dental health. Brush and floss your teeth daily and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Eat a healthy diet: A healthful diet helps promote overall dental health and reduce the risk of infections. Avoid sugary foods and drinks and choose a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and other nutrients.
• Avoid biting or chewing on hard or sticky foods: Biting or chewing on hard or sticky foods can put extra pressure on the treated tooth and increase the risk of pain or damage
• Wear a mouthguard: If you participate in sports or engage in activities that could result in trauma to your teeth, it is crucial to wear a mouthguard to absorb the trauma to your teeth and prevent further damage.

When to See a Dentist After a Root Canal

It is essential to see your dentist in Flower Mound, TX, after a root canal to ensure the procedure is successful and to address any issues that may arise. In addition, your dental professional will provide you with a follow-up appointment to check on the treated tooth and ensure it is healing correctly. Your endodontist at Flower Mound will also be able to assess the treated tooth and ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.

If you are also experiencing persistent pain or discomfort following a root canal, it is essential to contact your dental professional as soon as possible. They will help you identify the cause of the pain and recommend the appropriate treatment to help relieve the discomfort.