dental hygiene
Why Does a Root Canal Hurt in the First Place?
The pain usually originates inside the tooth, where the pulp holds nerves and blood vessels. If decay or an injury inflames or infects that tissue the tooth can become extremely sensitive. Hot drinks may trigger it. Biting down can feel terrible. Sometimes the pain seems to travel toward the jaw.
What Happens During the Treatment?
First the dentist numbs the area around the tooth. This part often worries people. The injection ends quickly. Once the area is numb the dentist creates an opening in the tooth and removes the infected or inflamed pulp. The inside is then cleaned before the tooth is sealed.
Will Your Tooth Hurt After a Root Canal?
The tooth and tissues around it may feel tender after treatment especially if there was inflammation or infection beforehand. One might notice discomfort when chewing for a days. For people this settles as the area recovers.
For people this settles as the area recovers.
• Mild tenderness around the tooth especially when biting, is fairly common after treatment.
• A dull ache that gradually settles feels very different from the tooth pain you had before.
• Severe pain or swelling after treatment is not something to simply ignore especially if it keeps getting worse.
What About the Needle?
Honestly this is often what people remember most. The dentist may first use a numbing gel before the injection, which makes the process easier. The patient may feel a pinch and some pressure. Then the area starts to go numb.
Is a Root Canal Worse Than Having a Tooth Removed?
This is where people sometimes assume extraction must be easier because the tooth is simply coming out. That is not necessarily how it feels afterward. A root canal is designed to remove tissue while keeping the natural tooth in place whereas an extraction leaves the patient healing from the removal of the tooth itself.
Keeping the tooth is usually worth considering when the dentist says it can be saved. The dentist can explain what makes sense based on the condition of that tooth.
How Can You Make the Experience Easier?
Tell the dentist if one is nervous before the procedure starts. Seriously. The dentist hears this all the time. Knowing that one is anxious gives the dentist a chance to explain what is happening and check that one is properly numb before continuing.
• A clear stop signal, with the dentist can make the whole appointment feel less intimidating.
• If one is still feeling pain after the area has been numbed say so rather than trying to tough it out.
• Bring up worries beforehand. A two-minute conversation can save one a lot of tension in the chair.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
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