Is root canal treatment painful?
The treatment is carried out under local anaesthesia, so the tooth is numb. It often relieves the original pain. Sensitivity when chewing may persist for a few days afterwards.
Root canal treatment
The painful reputation of root canal treatment comes mainly from the pain felt before treatment, when the nerve is inflamed or infected. The very purpose of the treatment is to remove this source of pain.
During the session, local anaesthesia numbs the tooth and the area around it. When inflammation is very severe, the anaesthetic may take longer to work. The dentist can then add more until you are comfortable.
After treatment, it is common for the tooth to stay tender to pressure for a few days, while the tissues around the root settle. Suitable pain relief is generally enough. It is advisable to avoid chewing on the treated side until the tooth has its final restoration.
If the pain increases instead of easing, or if swelling appears, contact the practice for a check-up.
This is a general answer. Only a consultation at the practice can tell what suits your situation.
Other questions in this section
- What is root canal treatment and when is it needed?
- How many sessions does root canal treatment take?
- Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
- Is it better to have root canal treatment or to extract the tooth?
- The treatment in detail : Root canal treatment
- See the whole section
- All frequently asked questions