Contrary to popular belief, a root canal procedure, also known as root canal therapy, is usually not painful. It is a pain-relieving procedure. Modern technology and the use of anaesthetics make root canal therapy a quick, safe and excellent way to save a natural tooth from extraction.
Early symptoms of a root canal pulp infection include increased sensitivity to temperature, especially when consuming hot or cold food and drinks, pain when chewing or biting, and sudden or constant pain in the tooth.
Root Canal Treatment
After establishing you require root canal treatment, your dentist injects a local anaesthetic to the affected area, reducing root canal pain during the procedure and numbing the site.
A root canal procedure treats the diseased pulp, preserving the rest of the tooth. Your dentist inspects and cleans the root canals, filing away infected areas.
To kill the infection, your dentist inserts antibacterial medicine into the diseased area. Your dentist may request a follow-up visit to ensure the medicine is working. When your dentist is satisfied with the treatment, they permanently seal the tooth, usually with a crown to restore your tooth’s integrity and function.
Managing Pain After Root Canal Treatment
As with any kind of surgery, there is a risk of pain after root canal treatment.
Because the infection may have irritated the surrounding gum before the procedure, you may find there is still some swelling and periradicular inflammation.
You may also feel some discomfort in the tooth that had the infection.
Depending on the severity, it does take some time for the swelling to dissipate and for the soft tissue to fully heal. You can take over-the-counter pain relief medications to reduce any discomfort. Your dentist may also prescribe a stronger pain reliever and antibiotics. A warm salt water rinse can help to soothe the area.
Avoiding very hot or cold foods and drinks for a few days can be effective, and you should not eat anything too hard as your tooth may still be sensitive. Soft fruits, yoghurts, oatmeal, smoothies, and soups are excellent foods while you make a full recovery.
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your jaw periodically for the first 24 hours following surgery may reduce swelling and allow the site to heal. Although you may naturally want to avoid the area, it is vital to maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
If you received a temporary filling and your dentist didn’t file it down enough you may experience some discomfort when you bite down. This is easily resolved with your dentist filing down the high filling and rechecking your bite.
Choose Dapto Dentists
Root canal pain originates from the infection. If you are experiencing root canal pain, it is essential to see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading to your jaw.
We can perform a thorough examination and determine if you need a root canal procedure. The sooner we can treat the infection, the quicker the disease dies, the pain stops, and we can save your natural tooth.
If you have symptoms of a root canal infection or are concerned about your oral health, contact Dapto Dentists on (02) 4210 9058 to book an appointment.
