It’s typical to experience some discomfort in the area treated with a root canal. This discomfort is generally expected to last for 2-3 days following the procedure, but in some cases, depending on individual circumstances, the tooth and surrounding tissues may remain sore for a few weeks.
The discomfort you may experience can usually be attributed to one of the following reasons:
Sore Jaw Joint: This can occur from having your mouth open for an extended period during the treatment.
Sore Muscle: The injection site for the anesthesia may cause muscle soreness.
Sore Gum: The placement of the rubber dam during the procedure can lead to gum soreness.
How to Alleviate Pain
For most instances of post-treatment discomfort, over-the-counter (OTC) medications are effective. The recommended dosages are:
For Ibuprofen Users: Take 600 mg (equivalent to 3 OTC pills of Advil, Motrin, or a generic version) every 6 hours for the next 2 days.
For Those Who Cannot Take Ibuprofen: Take 1000 mg Acetaminophen (2 extra strength Tylenol or a generic equivalent) every 6-8 hours for the next 2 days.
These measures are successful in managing discomfort 90% of the time. If you find that the pain persists beyond what OTC medications can manage, please get in touch with our office. We are committed to ensuring your comfort and will take necessary steps to address any ongoing pain.
Additionally, if you’ve been prescribed any specific medications related to your treatment, it’s important to follow the dosage and usage instructions provided by your doctor closely.
