Contents
After having a root canal, pain relief can be achieved using many different methods. What are these methods, and which ones are the most advisable? This article will talk about the best pain relief hacks you can try at home after your root canal procedure. If you are experiencing pain in your root canal site, read how you can calm the pain until you visit your dentist.
What is a root canal?
A root canal procedure is done to save a tooth from being extracted or damaged beyond repair. The tooth that needs a root canal usually has an infection in the tooth pulp, which can cause extreme pain in the tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected tooth pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth and putting a dental filling to cover the hole on the top of the tooth.
Pain during recovery
Over the years, root canal surgery has become synonymous with pain. However, most of the pain that a person feels that is related to a root canal occurs when the infection is still present in the tooth. During the recovery from a root canal surgery there will only be minimal pain, as long as the person follows their dentist’s instructions.
Realistically, a person should still brace themselves for some pain and discomfort as they recover from a root canal surgery. However, this pain should subside slowly over the course of the recovery period.
The reason why pain may sometimes be present after a root canal
The pain a person feels usually comes before the root canal procedure, not after it. The pain is caused because of the infected tooth pulp inside the tooth. If a person experiences pain after the root canal procedure is already finished, there is likely an infection inside the tooth. There is a chance that not all the pulp was taken out, or there may be a crack in the dental filling that allowed bacteria to re-enter the tooth. Visiting a dentist will determine the cause of the pain.
Ways to achieve root canal pain relief
There are many ways by which a person can achieve pain relief from a painful root canal site.
Pain killers
Over-the-counter pain killers usually do the trick to get rid of the pain after a root canal. There are also drugs available that can help bring down any swelling in the affected area, if you happen to have it.
Hot or cold compress
A hot or cold compress can numb the pain as well as reduce the swelling in your gums. This is a better option for people who do not want to take drugs for the pain.
Salt water rinse
Salt has natural antiseptic qualities and can help relieve pain after a root canal surgery. Mix 1 tablespoon of salt in warm water and swish the mixture around the affected area.
Are you experiencing pain?
If you have just had a root canal surgery and are experiencing pain, it is important that you seek pain relief before going to your dentist. When the pain will have subsided, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. Pain rarely occurs alone. There is usually a more serious problem that accompanies pain. It is important to have your dentist examine your root canal site to find the reason why you are experiencing pain.
