How Can We Reduce Root Canal Treatment Pain?

When your tooth is infected, you’re likely to experience side effects such as sensitivity, pain, swelling, and discoloration. Your dentist will recommend performing a root canal treatment to save the tooth. The dentist drills through the infected tooth during the treatment and removes the decayed tissues from the tooth’s pulp.

Next, the tooth is cleaned, rinsed, and disinfected thoroughly to eliminate the infection. Lastly, the dentist seals the tooth and places a dental crown to restore the tooth’s strength and integrity if necessary. The entire treatment is performed under anesthesia to keep you pain-free and relaxed.

After a root canal treatment, the anesthesia will wear off after a few minutes. Once it happens, it’s common to experience some side effects such as pain, swelling, and inflammation around the treated tooth. Fortunately, your dentist will likely prescribe some medications to ease the discomfort.

Home Remedies For Root Canal Pain

The first rule for managing pain after a root canal treatment will always be to contact a dentist near you. Along with your dentist’s advice, you can use the following home remedies:

• Cold compress

A cold compress is one of the most popular remedies for managing pain and swelling after a root canal procedure. Place an ice pack or wet washcloth around the treated area, and leave it for five minutes. Repeat the process every 15 minutes until the discomfort subsides.

• Saltwater

Salty water is highly effective in relieving pain and inflammation around the irritated gums and cheek tissues. Saltwater lowers your risk of bacterial infections. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Take a sip, swish the solution in your mouth for about one minute, and then spit.

• Pillow elevation

Elevating your head with a soft pillow when sleeping or lying down can help reduce bleeding and ease the pain.

• Consume soft and cool foods

After a root canal treatment, the soft tissues and nerves around the treated tooth will be sensitive. Eating hot, spicy, hard, or cold items can cause irritation and sensitivity. Eat soft and cool items such as soaps and drink enough water.

• Brush and floss

Since you’ll be eating and drinking after a root canal treatment, it’s essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene. It can help to wash away bacteria and irritants that can trigger more pain and cause infection. Also, flossing can help remove food particles trapped between teeth and lessen the discomfort.

When To See Your Dentist

Root canal side effects should ease with time. If the symptoms persist or worsen, you should visit endodontics near you or contact our emergency dentist in Knoxville. In some cases, an initial root canal treatment can fail, and you may need more cleaning sessions.

Jaw Pain after Root Canal

Since a root canal takes place around your jawbone, it’s normal to experience tenderness or pain. It can cause jaw muscles stiffness and discomfort when opening your mouth. Fortunately, the pain should fade away within a few days. Therapies such as heat, massage, and stretching can help relieve discomfort.

Signs Of Infection After Root Canal

After a root canal treatment, proper dental hygiene is essential to promote faster healing and recovery. Still, due to specific reasons, someone can experience an infection. Signs of infection after a root canal treatment include:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t stop or gets worse
• Severe sensitivity to hot, cold, and sugary items
• Severe swelling and bleeding
• Extreme tenderness around the gums and jawbone
• Fever
• Bad breath
• Darkening of the tooth
• A lump forming on the gums

Usually, infections after a root canal treatment happen when a dental crown isn’t properly on the treated tooth. It increases the risk of bacterial contamination. Some bacteria can also be accidentally trapped inside the tooth during the procedure, leading to re-infection. Fortunately, your dentist can perform another procedure to eliminate the infection and preserve the health of your tooth and mouth.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you interested in root canal treatment in Knoxville, TN? Contact TLC Dental Care today to talk with Dr. Terrie Cribbs.