You never want to go through this pain ever again. Your aching tooth is keeping you from eating, from sleeping, from functioning as you normally would. Treatment is just a phone call away to your dentist, but you hesitate because you don’t want to go through more pain after root canal therapy.
But you don’t need to suffer! You shouldn’t really feel pain after the procedure. Keep reading to learn how this treatment can relieve your discomfort and take care of the problem for good.
Pain Before Root Canal Treatment
When people associate pain with root canal therapy, they often mistakenly think the pain that precedes treatment will keep going. Those who must have this procedure suffer from severe toothaches, which are the result of extreme tooth decay or a deep crack that has reached the nerve or center. Without intervention, bacteria and acids can infect the nerve and root, causing excruciating pain and a problem that will only get worse over time.
Pain After Root Canal Treatment
Many patients fear that their hurting tooth will continue to cause pain even after root canal treatment. However, in most cases, instead of throbbing or sharp pain, those who undergo this therapy merely experience soreness. This usually mild symptom is often the result of having to hold your mouth open for a prolonged period of time, but it should quickly go away.
You may also feel soreness in the nerves surrounding the treated tooth for a short while after the procedure, but because the nerve of the tooth itself has been removed, it shouldn’t give you any more discomfort. For a day or two after your root canal, you may need to take over-the-counter pain reliever, but soon any unpleasant sensations should subside.
When to Call Your Dentist
Although ibuprofen or acetaminophen can usually control normal post-root canal discomfort, if you experience pain to the same level as before or wors afterward, don’t notice improvement within a couple of days, have a fever, or have any other concerning symptoms, you definitely need to contact your dentist right away.
In addition, if you find that your replacement crown or filling isn’t fitting properly in your bite, you should talk to your dentist and have it adjusted to prevent future damage to your other teeth.
If you have a tooth in need of root canal therapy, don’t put it off. Save yourself from unnecessary anguish by getting treated. Even if you are sore for a few days following the procedure, it will be much easier than enduring an infection and better for your smile in the long run!
About the Practice
Williamsburg Dental offers comprehensive dental services to patients of all ages throughout the Lincoln area. Rather than having to see a specialist for more advanced services, you can work with a team you see regularly, know, and trust. With six locations in the area, you’re sure to find one nearby when you need us most. If you would like to learn more about root canal therapy, you can contact us by calling one of our offices or visiting our Contact Us page here.