Getting a root canal may not sound like the most enjoyable way to spend your time, but the truth is that this surgery is rather regular and can effectively relieve pain or suffering caused by damage or infection on the inside of your tooth. What happens if you still experience dental sensitivity after a root canal? Some temporary discomfort is to be expected, and there are pain relief options if the root canal tooth is sensitive. However, if your discomfort is persistent or severe, or if you have any concerns about your root canal therapy in Lethbridge, you should consult your dentist. Continue reading to find out more about root canals and what you can do if a tooth remains sensitive after one.
Root canal treatments are often deemed a necessary evil, providing relief from excruciating toothaches. However, it’s not uncommon for individuals to experience discomfort even after the procedure. If you find yourself wincing when pressing on your root-canal treated tooth, fear not – you’re not alone. We will examine the causes of this feeling in this guide, along with strategies for controlling and reducing the pain.
What is root canal?
Before diving into the why’s and how’s of post-treatment pain, it’s crucial to understand the root canal procedure itself. During a root canal, a dentist in Lethbridge removes infected pulp from the tooth, cleans and disinfects the area, and seals it to prevent further infection. While the aim is to eliminate pain, some discomfort post-treatment is normal as the tooth heals.
Reasons Behind Post-Treatment Pain
- Inflammation and Healing: The dental pulp removal and cleaning process can lead to inflammation in the surrounding tissues. As the body heals, this inflammation can cause sensitivity and discomfort when pressure is applied to the tooth.
- Residual Infection: In some cases, the root canal may not completely eliminate the infection, leading to lingering discomfort. If you experience persistent pain, consult your dentist near you for further evaluation.
- Occlusion Issues: Changes in the way your teeth come together (occlusion) after a root canal can result in discomfort. The treated tooth might experience uneven pressure when biting or chewing.
- Tissue Trauma: The surrounding tissues and nerves might experience trauma during the procedure, contributing to post-treatment pain. Nerves take time to heal, and during this process, pressing on the tooth can induce discomfort.
Managing and Alleviating Pain
- Patience and Time: Recognize that some discomfort is normal after a root canal.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage mild to moderate pain. Follow your dentist’s recommendations and guidelines.
- Avoiding pressure: Be mindful of how you bite or chew. If your treated tooth is sensitive, try to avoid putting excessive pressure on it. Stick to softer foods during the initial healing period.
- Dental Follow-ups: Attend your scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist. They are able to evaluate the recovery process and address any worries you might have.
- Communicate with Your Dentist: If pain persists or worsens, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They can conduct additional assessments, such as X-rays, to identify any underlying issues.
Manage your root canal tooth sensitivity:
Experiencing discomfort when pressing on a root-canal treated tooth is not uncommon, but it’s essential to differentiate between normal healing and potential issues. By understanding the reasons behind the pain and adopting appropriate management strategies, you can navigate the post- root canal therapy in Lethbridge with greater ease. Remember, open communication with your dentist is key to ensuring a smooth and pain-free recovery.
If you have significant or long-lasting tooth sensitivity to hot or cold, or if you are experiencing additional intense pains around your tooth, consult your Absolute Dental about treatment options. Remember that moderate discomfort or tooth sensitivity following a root canal is common and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers.