How Much Will a Root Canal Hurt?

Root canals have gotten a bad reputation from how they are portrayed in movies and on television. The truth is that root canals these days are rendered entirely painless by local anesthetics, but there may be some discomfort for a while afterward. However, there should never be any pain that gets in the way of your day-to-day activities. Here’s how much discomfort is to be expected after a root canal and how to know if you need to call your dentist for assistance.

How Much Discomfort Should I Expect After a Root Canal?

Though the root canal procedure itself will be painless, you will probably experience mild to moderate pain or soreness in the surgical area afterward. The area around the tooth will probably be sensitive and tender as the body heals, and some people may even find that their jaws are sore after holding their mouths open through the whole process.

How Can I Stay Comfortable After Getting a Root Canal?

The best way to keep your recovery after a root canal as pleasant as possible is to practice excellent oral hygiene and comply with any aftercare instructions you receive from your dentist. Immediately following the procedure, you should abstain from eating and drinking until the anesthesia wears off to prevent biting injuries. You should also take care to avoid using the treated tooth when chewing.

When Should I Call My Dentist for Help?

While some discomfort is expected after receiving a root canal, excessive pain is a sign that you need dental help. If the pain is interfering with your everyday activities, you should call your dentist to schedule an emergency appointment. A few signs that something is wrong include:

• Severe pain
• Swelling.
• Fever.
• An uneven bite or other alignment issues.
• You feel sick.

There’s no reason to be afraid if you need a root canal, but patients sometimes need further treatment afterward. However, these procedures have a high success rate and have prevented tooth loss for millions of people.

About the Practice

Souris Valley Dental Group has provided excellent oral healthcare to the community of Minot, ND since 1968. Led by Drs. Mark Hildahl, Jerick Hensen, Kevin Brodersen, Joanna Brekhus, and Nicole Searcey, the staff maintains a clean and friendly environment while delivering effective treatments. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry such as root canal treatments. For more information on what to expect after a root canal, contact the office online or dial (701) 852-5595.