Reasons of having pain after you have done your root canal treatment (RCT)

After a root canal treatment, some discomfort is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Discomfort can occur due to the inflammation of the surrounding tissue, the tooth being more sensitive to pressure and temperature changes, and the tooth feeling different from the surrounding teeth.

What causes pain after RCT

If you are experiencing pain after a root canal treatment, it is important to contact the endodontist who performed the procedure as soon as possible. They will be able to evaluate the cause of the pain and provide appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the discomfort.

There are several possible reasons for experiencing pain after a root canal treatment. Some common causes include:

• Post-operative inflammation

This is a normal response to the procedure and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

• Persistent infection

If the tooth was infected before the root canal treatment, there may still be bacteria present which can cause pain.

• Nerve injury

In rare cases, the nerve inside the tooth can be injured during the root canal procedure, resulting in pain.

• Sinusitis

Pain in the upper back teeth can be referred pain from sinusitis.

• Overfill

Overfilling of the canal with gutta-percha or other filling material can cause pain in the tooth.

• Fracture or crack of the tooth:

A tooth that has been treated with root canal may become brittle, and may fracture or crack.

How your dentist will help you

The discomfort should gradually decrease over the course of a few days to a week. Some of the things that the endodontist may suggest include:

• Reviewing proper oral hygiene

To avoid discomfort, the endodontist may review proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, to help keep the area clean and prevent infection.

• Adjusting the filling

If the discomfort is caused by an overfill or underfill of the root canal, the filling may be adjusted to alleviate the pressure.

• Prescribing pain medication

An Over-the-counter pain killers can be used in cases of mild pain or discomfort. However, If over-the-counter pain medication is not providing enough relief, the endodontist may prescribe a stronger medication.

• Prescribing antibiotics

 If the pain is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection.

• Retreatment

 If the initial root canal treatment was not successful, retreatment may be necessary.

• Referral to a oral and maxillofacial surgeon

If the pain is caused by a fracture or crack of the tooth that requires extraction or a surgical procedure.

P.S. : It is important to follow the endodontist’s instructions and to continue with regular follow-up appointments until the pain subsides.

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