Do you have a tooth infection? In days past, you would probably need to have the tooth extracted, but today, root canals deal with the infection while saving your tooth! What can you expect during a root canal? Is it normal to feel pain after?
What Happens During a Root Canal?
The first thing we’ll do is take digital X-rays. These let us see inside your tooth and decide if a root canal is the appropriate treatment. Next, we’ll numb the affected area, so the root canal doesn’t cause pain. Using special tools, we’ll make a small hole in the top of the tooth and clean out the infected tooth pulp. We fill the space with a medicated solution. Because your tooth now has a hole in it, we’ll need to place a filling or a dental crown to restore it.
Is It Normal to Feel Pain After a Root Canal?
Once the numbing has worn off, it’s normal to feel some pain. Your tooth is healing from the root canal and may experience inflammation. Over-the-counter painkillers should be enough to ease the pain. You should feel normal after a few days. Severe, sharp pain or pain that lasts 1-2 weeks isn’t normal. You should call us right away.
What Should You Do After a Root Canal?
We’ll always give you thorough instructions on what to do after a root canal. Lots of rest is essential. You should also avoid exercise and smoking until you’ve healed. Ideally, you should give yourself 1-2 days off work, but if that’s not possible, try to at least take the rest of the day off after your root canal. Right after your root canal, wait to eat until the numbing agent has worn off. You’ll want to eat soft foods for a few days.
Root Canals at Ashley Laird, DDS, in Tyler, Texas
Tooth infections are serious. In addition to causing severe pain, they can spread to the rest of the body. Root canals are a great treatment because they remove the infection without taking your tooth. Many people worry about root canals hurting, but modern techniques make them much less uncomfortable. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Laird, please contact us today!
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