Pain After a Root Canal: What's Normal?

If you just had a root canal in Fort Worth or you're considering one, you may be concerned about the pain to expect after the procedure. Most individuals associate having a root canal with so much discomfort and pain.

However, even though most patients can expect little discomfort during and after the treatment, excessive pain isn't normal. So what should you expect after a root canal treatment, and which pain is normal? Continue reading to know when to call a dentist.

What to Expect After Treatment?

Following a root canal treatment in Fort Worth, you can expect moderate pain, discomfort, or soreness. Your dentist may use anesthesia during the treatment to numb any pain or discomfort you experience. When the anesthesia wears off, you may feel mild to moderate soreness and discomfort in the site where your tooth was located or along the jawline.

You'll unlikely experience intense pain after undergoing a root canal treatment. A little discomfort and sensitivity are to be expected after the procedure, which is normal. However, how you care for your oral health after a root canal will determine how much discomfort you feel.

What Pain Isn't Normal?

Excruciating or prolonged pain that lasts for weeks after a root canal is not normal. This could be a sign of a failed root canal or an infection in the tooth. Too much pain could also result from unnoticed cracks or damage in the tooth. This may also happen if the root was cleaned improperly or there was a concealed root canal that was not detected during treatment.

When to Contact Your Dentist

If the pain or discomfort is too much that you cannot perform your daily activities, call your Fort Worth dentist immediately. Sometimes complications may occur following a root canal, including swelling, uneven bite, severe pain, or sickness. In this case, you need to contact a Forth Worth dentist.

In most cases, root canal treatment is successful for most patients. However, some cases require retreatment partly because of the continual bacterial infection. Your dentist will establish the root cause of the infection and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. Retreatment is usually ideal for alleviating pain and discomfort. But in serious situations, extracting the tooth may be the best option.

How to Manage Pain After Treatment

After a root canal procedure, your dentist may prescribe over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the pain. You should follow instructions faithfully and call the dentist if the medication isn't working. Avoid biting down or chewing on the affected tooth until the treatment is completed. You should also practice good oral hygiene with the recommended toothbrush and toothpaste.

Have Any Questions About Root Canal Treatment in Fort Worth?

Contact our team at Eagle Mountain Dentistry to get all your questions answered and learn more about our expert root canal treatment in Fort Worth. Schedule an appointment online or call us at  (817) 420-6676 to discuss your needs with Dr. Renas.