Due to many decades of humorously exaggerated representation in movies and television, many people believe that root canals are gruelingly painful procedures. The good news is that thanks to modern dental science, root canals are virtually painless, and the discomfort that happens while recovering can be easily managed. Here’s why you shouldn’t be afraid if you’re scheduled to have a root canal treatment.
What Does a Root Canal Feel Like?
A root canal is typically used to treat a tooth that has become severely injured or infected in order to save it from extraction and spare the patient the miserable pain that comes from a toothache. During a root canal, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to the tooth being treated. The dentist will then remove any decayed tooth structure, remove the pulp of the tooth, clean and sanitize the tooth’s inner chamber, and then seal it to prevent future infections. The tooth is then topped with a crown to restore it to its normal form and function.
The local anesthetic makes the procedure completely painless, and the appointment may take two to four hours, depending on the complexity of the treatment. However, the patient can expect to deal with some discomfort afterward.
What Is Recovering from a Root Canal Like?
After receiving a root canal, you can expect to experience some soreness and discomfort in the treated area. The area around the tooth may be tender and sore as the body heals, and some people experience a sore jaw as a result of the procedure requiring their mouth to be continuously open for a long time. These discomforts can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication.
Proper oral hygiene can make a significant difference in how much pain you feel. It’s important to continue following an excellent dental hygiene regimen after a root canal as well as show up at any follow-up appointments your dentist schedules. You should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the crown is placed and clean your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush. It’s also a good idea to wait until the local anesthetic wears off after your appointment before you continue eating and drinking. Otherwise, you might accidentally chew on your lips, cheeks, or tongue.
While you can expect some discomfort, if it becomes so severe that it interferes with your everyday life, you should make an emergency dentist appointment. Possible complications that require professional dental attention include fever, swelling, and an uneven bite. However, these issues are rare, and root canal patients can for the most part look forward to a smooth healing process and better dental health.
About the Author
Dr. John A. Kivus earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 1979. He joined the teaching staff at the University of New England College of Dental Medicine as an Assistant Clinical Professor in 2016. His office in South Portland, ME offers general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as root canals. For more information on what to expect from a root canal, contact his office online or dial (207) 253-5600.