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Pain Management After a Root Canal: What You Should Know
A root canal is a common practice for treating an extremely decayed tooth. In this process, the dentist deep cleans the inside of the tooth and saves your damaged tooth. A bit of pain is expected since this is a major dental procedure.
However, the pain should not last forever, and the pain should never be extreme.
If you are experiencing too much pain after a root canal process, you might be required to contact a professional on this.
In this blog, you will get more information on pain management after a root canal.
What Causes Pain After Root Canal?
If you are facing pain after a root canal procedure, there might be several reasons behind it:
- Inflammation: Swelling in the treated area is normal and a part of the natural healing process.
- Irritation of Tissue: Sometimes, the instruments that are used in the process can cause a bit of irritation to the gums around the tooth.
- Sensitivity to Pressure: Your tooth might feel sensitive when you bite down during the recovery period.
This type of pain is normal and should last a few days; however, if your pain persists more than that, you need a professional.
How to Manage Pain After a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy in Greeley may sometimes result in discomfort and pain. In such cases, you can try these quick remedies to relieve the pain.
- Ice Pack
One of the easiest and most recommended ways to manage pain after root canals is to use an ice pack. Specifically, a cold compress helps in numbing the pain.
Take a big ice cube, wrap it in plastic or some clothes, and place it outside your cheek on the tooth that had the root canal. Place the pack for a few minutes and then remove it. Do this again. Continue this same process for 15 minutes. And see if the pain lessens or not.
- Salt Water
Add a small amount of salt to a glass of warm water and mix it well. Rinse your mouth with this water. Do this repeatedly for some time.
Saltwater is a natural remedy for removing bacteria from the mouth and can do wonders for pain.
- Clove Oil
Clove oil contains naturally numbing elements. You can dab a cotton ball in clove oil and dab it on the painful tooth. This is a herbal remedy, so there is no need for any anesthesia.
- Elevate Your Head
When the pain is extreme, try elevating your head with pillows. It is directly linked to the nervous system. When your head is in a higher position than the rest of your body, the pain lessens a bit.
- Avoid Cold Beverages
For the time being, avoid cold beverages and drinks like alcohol. These can easily exacerbate your pain.
- Stop Smoking
If you are a smoker, it is very important to stay away from this danger after a root canal procedure. Smoking makes your mouth more susceptible to bacteria and increases the chances of infection.
- Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter painkillers can also do the job. With a dentist’s advice, you can take ibuprofen and see if it works.
- Oral Hygiene
Maintaining oral hygiene is non-negotiable. Brush twice a day and continue with our flossing. These will ensure no additional bacteria enter your mouth.
- Eat Mindfully
Just after a root canal, your teeth will be too sensitive and tender. It is better not to eat anything at this moment. Later, gradually, you can start with soft foods. But say no to hard and crunchy foods for the time being.
If you have not had any relief from these remedies for weeks, it is time for a dental checkup. Do not delay and worsen the situation.
Contact our dental office today and get more information on pain management after a root canal.
