Still in Pain After a Root Canal? What’s Normal and When to Call Your Dentist
Root canals are meant to stop tooth pain, not make it worse. But what if you're still hurting days later? If you've had a root canal and the pain hasn’t gone away, it’s important to know what’s expected during healing and when it’s time to call your dentist.
Understanding the Root Canal Process
A root canal treats an infected or damaged tooth by removing the nerve tissue inside. The space is cleaned, sealed, and often protected with a crown. The goal is to save the tooth and end the pain caused by infection.
However, some discomfort afterward is normal.
What Kind of Pain Is Considered Normal?
After a root canal, it’s common to feel sore or tender for a few days. This is part of the body’s natural healing process.
Mild Soreness
You might feel some soreness when chewing or biting. This usually comes from the area around the tooth, not the tooth itself.
Jaw Stiffness
Holding your mouth open during the procedure can leave your jaw muscles tired or sore.
Sensitive Gums
The tools and materials used can irritate your gums slightly, but this should fade within a few days.
These side effects are short-term and typically resolve in under a week.
When Pain Isn’t Normal
Pain that gets worse or lasts more than a week might mean something isn’t right. Watch for these red flags:
Persistent Pain
Throbbing, sharp, or growing pain after the initial healing period isn’t typical.
Swelling or a Gum Bump
This could be a sign of infection, especially if pus or fluid is present.
Fever or Feeling Ill
If you have a fever or feel run down, your body could be fighting an infection.
Sensitivity to Heat or Cold
The treated tooth should no longer respond to temperature changes. If it does, there may be untreated canals.
Pain That Comes Back
If you felt better for a while and then the pain returned, something may have gone wrong with healing or sealing.
Why You Might Still Have Pain
Several things can cause lingering pain after a root canal:
Inflammation
The area around the tooth may still be inflamed, especially if the infection was severe.
High Bite
If the crown or filling is too high, it can cause discomfort when biting or chewing. A simple adjustment can fix this.
Hidden Canals
Some teeth have extra canals that can be missed. If any are left untreated, bacteria can remain.
Cracks in the Tooth
A fracture in the root or crown may compromise the tooth and lead to renewed pain.
New Infection
Sometimes, bacteria re-enter the tooth if the seal fails or decay forms again.
How Long Does It Take to Feel Normal?
Most people feel significantly better within a few days. Tenderness may last up to two weeks but should steadily improve.
If your pain is holding steady or worsening beyond that point, it’s time to consult your dentist.
How to Manage Mild Discomfort at Home
Here are some simple ways to ease normal post-treatment soreness:
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen help manage swelling and discomfort.
Cold compresses: Apply to the outside of your face to reduce inflammation.
Soft foods: Stick with gentle foods to avoid putting pressure on the treated tooth.
Saltwater rinses: Help reduce bacteria and ease gum irritation.
These remedies can support healing, but they’re not a substitute for professional care if your pain isn’t improving.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Reach out to your dental provider if:
Pain continues beyond a week or worsens
You develop a fever or swelling
Your bite feels off
There’s unusual discharge or odour from the area
Your dentist may recommend new X-rays, antibiotics, or a follow-up procedure depending on what’s going on.
What If the Root Canal Didn’t Work?
Although root canals have a high success rate, they can occasionally fail. In that case, you have several options:
Root Canal Retreatment
The original filling is removed, and the tooth is cleaned and sealed again. This is often effective if a new infection develops.
Apicoectomy
This surgical option removes the tip of the root and seals it from the outside. It’s usually done if standard retreatment isn’t possible.
Extraction
If the tooth can’t be saved, removal might be the best choice. You can then explore bridges, dentures, or dental implants to fill the gap.
Don’t Let Pain Linger
It’s normal to feel some tenderness after a root canal, but it shouldn’t last long or get worse. Paying attention to your symptoms and acting early can prevent bigger problems.
Time to Get Checked?
If your tooth still hurts after a root canal, don’t wait and hope it goes away. The team at Lumi Dental is here to help.
Book a visit with a trusted dentist in Winnipeg today to get relief and protect your smile.
Pain-free should mean pain-free. Let us help you get there.
