Root Canal Treatment and Aftercare: What to Expect
A root canal in East Lansing can bring major relief, especially if you’ve been dealing with serious tooth pain. It’s normal to feel some soreness, numbness, or mild discomfort for a few days afterward. The good news? With proper care, these symptoms usually fade quickly.
Root canal treatment in East Lansing is done with precision and attention to comfort. Our goal is to preserve your tooth and help you heal with minimal discomfort.
At East Lansing Modern Dental, we want you to feel calm and confident throughout your care. If you’re dealing with throbbing pain or unsure how to care for your smile after treatment, we’re here to help.
Why Does Throbbing Pain Happen After a Root Canal?
If you’re feeling severe pain, contact our trusted team right away. Post-treatment pain may result from several causes:
- Occlusion Issues: A high bite or pressure from clenching or grinding can irritate the tissue around the tooth. The ligament that holds your tooth in place remains sensitive after treatment and can cause ongoing discomfort.
- Root Fracture: Cracks in the root are a common cause of pain. Look for signs like a deep pocket near one part of the tooth or pain that starts sharp and becomes a dull ache when chewing or touching the area.
- Periodontal Discomfort: Inflammation from gum disease or bone loss can affect the tissues surrounding the tooth, leading to pain or sensitivity.
- Nonodontogenic Pain: Sometimes the discomfort doesn’t come from the tooth at all. Sinus pressure, jaw tension, or nearby nerves may cause pain that feels like a toothache.
- Endodontic Causes: Teeth with multiple roots may have hidden or blocked canals. If one is missed during treatment, leftover tissue can cause lingering pain.
How to Care for Your Smile After a Root Canal
Follow all pain management instructions until your follow-up visit. Until your tooth fully heals, be gentle with the area:
- Brush and floss normally, but take care around the treated tooth.
- Avoid biting or chewing on hard foods.
- Don’t put pressure on the restored tooth.
Root canal therapy helps save your natural smile and prevents the need for extraction. If you have any questions about your recovery, contact East Lansing Modern Dental today!