A root canal is often the last resort to save a tooth that’s severely decayed or infected. It can stop serious pain, restore function, and protect your oral health. But what happens when the pain doesn’t go away after the procedure? How do you know if it’s part of the healing process or a sign that something’s wrong?
Let’s break down what to expect after a root canal, what pain is normal, and when you should reach out to your dentist.
What to Expect Right After a Root Canal
Mild to Moderate Pain is Normal
After a root canal, it’s completely normal to feel some discomfort. Your dentist has just cleaned out the inner pulp of your tooth, removed infection, and sealed the area. Your body needs time to heal, and mild pain or tenderness in the area is part of that process.
You might notice:
- Soreness in the tooth and jaw
- Swelling around the treated area
- Pain when biting or chewing
This pain usually peaks in the first 24-48 hours and gradually improves over the next few days.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Should Help
Most patients manage this discomfort with basic over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If the pain responds well to these, it’s a good sign that you’re healing as expected.
When Pain After a Root Canal is NOT Normal
While some pain is expected, certain types or intensities of pain can signal a problem. Pay attention to your body and know when it’s time to call your dentist.
Severe or Worsening Pain
If your pain gets worse over time instead of better, that’s a red flag. Especially if it becomes intense, throbbing, or radiates to your jaw or ear.
Pain That Lasts More Than a Week
Discomfort should steadily decrease with each passing day. If you’re still in significant pain 7-10 days post-procedure, it’s not typical and needs attention.
Swelling, Fever, or Foul Taste
These symptoms could mean the infection wasn’t fully removed or has returned:
- Swelling that persists or worsens
- Fever or general malaise
- Bad taste or odour in the mouth
These signs should not be ignored.
Pain When Chewing or Biting Down
Some sensitivity is expected, but if biting down remains sharply painful a week or more after the root canal, it could mean the tooth wasn’t sealed properly, the filling is too high, or there’s a hidden crack in the tooth.
Possible Reasons for Post-Root Canal Pain
Inflammation From the Procedure
Your body might just be reacting to the process itself. Irritation to the surrounding tissues, nerves, or ligaments can take a few days to settle.
Missed Canals or Residual Infection
Some teeth have complex canal systems. If even a tiny portion of infected tissue remains, it can trigger ongoing pain and swelling.
Cracked Tooth
If your tooth has a fracture that wasn’t visible before or during the root canal, it can continue to cause pain. Cracks often require additional treatment or even extraction.
High Bite
If the crown or filling placed after your root canal is too high, it can put extra pressure on the treated tooth, leading to pain and irritation every time you bite or chew.
When to Call Your Dentist
Don’t try to tough it out. If you’re not sure whether your pain is normal or concerning, it’s better to call your dentist and get peace of mind.
Call your dentist right away if you experience:
- Intense, worsening pain after 3 days
- Swelling in your face or gums
- Fever or chills
- A return of sharp pain or pressure sensitivity
- Bad taste in your mouth that doesn’t go away
Your dentist may need to:
- Reassess the tooth with new X-rays
- Adjust the filling or crown
- Prescribe antibiotics
- Perform a retreatment or further dental procedure
How to Reduce Post-Procedure Pain
Follow Post-Care Instructions Closely
Your dentist will give you clear instructions after your root canal. Follow them to the letter. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a crown or filling.
Use Cold Compresses
Applying a cold pack to your cheek can help reduce inflammation and ease soreness in the first 24 hours.
Stick to Soft Foods
Avoid anything crunchy, hard, or sticky for a few days. Stick with soft, easy-to-chew foods to avoid irritating the area.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Gently brush and floss around the area, and consider using a saltwater rinse to help keep the area clean and support healing.
Final Thoughts
Pain after a root canal isn’t unusual, but it should improve each day. If you’re feeling worse instead of better, don’t wait around hoping it will go away. Persistent pain could be a sign of infection or complications that need prompt treatment.
Need Help? Call a Trusted Dentist in Rolla, MO
If you’re still in pain after a root canal or just not sure what’s going on, Wedgewood Dental is here to help. Our experienced team will evaluate your symptoms, perform any necessary diagnostics, and get you back on the path to pain-free oral health.
