If your dentist says you need a root canal procedure, you might have some questions about what to expect. For instance, you may want to know:
There are no universal answers to these questions. Every patient’s experience may be somewhat unique. That said, as this guide explains, the pain you might experience after getting a root canal may be much less significant than you expect.
Is Getting a Root Canal Painful?
Patients may fear root canal treatment because they’ve heard it’s painful. That’s not necessarily the case. A study from the University of Adelaide indicates the average patient who undergoes root canal treatment now finds any discomfort it does cause is not noticeably more significant than the discomfort other common dental procedures cause.
Dental technology constantly improves. Often, these improvements boost patient comfort during procedures. While a root canal may have caused major discomfort in the past, this is now much less common.
Pain After Root Canal: How Long it Should Last
Advances in dental care technology and techniques have made it possible to undergo a root canal treatment while experiencing minimal pain. That said, experiencing some degree of discomfort in the aftermath of the procedure may be natural.
A recent study from the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry reveals the following:
That last point is worth considering if you feel anxious about an upcoming root canal procedure. Research shows most patients experience no significant discomfort after a root canal treatment.
Those who do usually experience noticeable pain for the first two days following the procedure. Said pain and discomfort tends to decrease with each hour.
Managing Pain After a Root Canal
Steps you may take to address your discomfort after a root canal procedure include the following:
Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is also wise. Both these substances can cause discomfort after a root canal.
When to See a Dentist About Discomfort After a Root Canal
Although some degree of pain after a root canal may be normal, you should contact your dentist if:
You should also seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing. These symptoms might be a sign of an allergic reaction.
Worried About Post-Root Canal Pain? Speak With Your Dentist
Again, research suggests any pain you experience both during and after a root canal treatment is likely to be minimal. Your dentist can provide additional suggestions regarding how to guard against discomfort as you recover from the procedure.
You may find that the more you discuss this topic with a dentist, the less anxious you will feel about your treatment. Additionally, depending on the circumstances, a dentist might offer sedation dentistry to help you feel more relaxed during an appointment.
Learn More About the Root Canal Procedure in Monmouth County, NJ
At Champagne Smiles, in Morganville, NJ, we work hard to optimize patient comfort when offering root canal treatment. If you’re ready to start your journey to better oral health with Dr. Richard Champagne and a truly collaborative and compassionate dental team, contact Champagne Smiles in Morganville, NJ today to schedule your first appointment.
