A root canal is a standard procedure used to save a tooth that has a deep infection or injury. Many people feel nervous about this treatment because they worry about pain. However, modern tools used by a dentist in SW Calgary make the process much more comfortable than it used to be. The goal is to stop the intense pain caused by a sick nerve. Once the tooth is cleaned and sealed, you can expect a short healing time. Knowing what is normal during recovery can help you feel more relaxed.
Is It Normal To Feel Sore Right After The Procedure?
It is very common to feel a little bit of aching or tenderness once the numbing medicine wears off. When you get a root canal treatment in Calgary, the dentist works in a very sensitive spot. Even though the nerve inside the tooth is gone, the area around the root can still be a bit puffy. This swelling can make the tooth feel “high” or sensitive when you bite down. Most people find that this feeling is more like a dull ache than the sharp, throbbing pain they had before.
How Long Does Pain Last After A Root Canal?
Most people want to know exactly how long does pain lasts after a root canal once they get home. Usually, the most tenderness happens in the first 24 to 48 hours. After the second day, the ache should start to go away slowly. By the time a week has passed, you should be able to eat and brush normally without any trouble. If you still feel a lot of pain after five or six days, it is a good idea to call your dental office to make sure everything is healing correctly.
What Causes The Ache While You Heal?
The soreness you feel usually isn’t from the tooth itself, but from the gums and bone around it. During the visit, your mouth is held open for a while, which can make your jaw muscles feel tired. If you visit a dentist near South Calgary, they will explain that the tiny tools used can sometimes irritate the very tip of the root. This is a natural part of your body’s healing process. As the swelling subsides, the sensitivity will resolve, and the tooth will feel normal again.
How Can You Manage The Ache At Home?
Taking care of yourself after the visit is simple. Most dentists suggest using over-the-counter pain medication to help reduce swelling. It is also a smart move to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth for a few days. Sticking to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soup helps prevent putting too much pressure on the sore spot. Keeping your mouth clean by gently brushing and rinsing with warm salt water can also help you heal faster and prevent bacteria from growing.
When Should You Be Worried About The Pain?
While a bit of aching is fine, some signs mean you should call for help. If you see a lot of swelling in your cheek or gums, it could mean the infection is still there. Another red flag is if the pain gets worse after the third day rather than improving. Extreme pain that doesn’t go away even after taking medicine is not normal. If you feel a sharp “electric shock” feeling or if your temporary filling falls out, you should talk to a professional right away to protect the tooth.
Does A Temporary Crown Change How You Feel?
Before you get your permanent crown, you will usually have a temporary filling or crown. Sometimes, these crowns feel rough or might be a little bit taller than your other teeth. If your bite feels uneven, it can cause extra soreness because that tooth hits first every time you close your mouth. A quick check-up can fix this adjustment and make your recovery much smoother.
Healing Guide: What to Expect
Time | How it Feels | What to Do |
Days 1-2 | Dull ache, tender | Eat soft foods and rest |
Days 3-5 | Pain starts to fade | Start eating firmer foods |
Day 7+ | Should feel normal | Call if it still hurts a lot |
Getting Back to a Healthy Smile
Finishing a root canal is a big step in keeping your teeth healthy. While healing takes a bit of patience, the result is a strong tooth that can last a lifetime. Most discomfort is short and easy to handle with some rest. Once your final crown is on, you can get back to eating what you love and smiling with confidence. At Glamorgan Dental, we want to make sure your trip to a healthy smile is as comfortable as possible. Our team is here to offer easy tips and gentle care as you heal. When you know what to expect, you feel much more relaxed. If you have any tooth pain or questions about a treatment, reach out to us today to set up a visit.
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Can I go back to work right away?
Yes, most people go back to work the same day, but be careful not to bite your lip while you are still numb.
Why does it hurt more when I lie down?
Lying flat increases blood flow to your head, which can make a healing tooth throb; try using an extra pillow.
Is it normal for my gums to be sore?
Yes, your gums might be sore from the numbing poke or the tools used, but this usually goes away in a day or two.
What if the pain goes away and then comes back?
If the pain returns after you feel better, the tooth might have a tiny crack, so you should have your dentist take a look.
