Tooth with Root Canal Hurts When Pressed – Is This Normal?

Root canals are designed to save teeth and relieve pain. But what if the tooth with a root canal hurts with pressure? Minor sensitivity after the procedure is normal, but lingering pain might indicate an issue. Here’s what you need to know about post-root canal discomfort, its causes, and when to seek help.

Why Does a Tooth Hurt Post a Root Canal?

A root canal eliminates the infected pulp and nerve from the tooth, preventing pain and further damage. However, it’s common to experience some discomfort afterward due to:

• Inflammation: Surrounding tissues may be inflamed, causing tenderness.
• Healing Process: It takes time for the tissue around the root to heal.
• Bite Adjustment: The filling or crown may be too high, putting pressure on the tooth.
• Temporary Irritation: Cleaning and filling the canals can irritate surrounding nerves.

Mild discomfort usually resolves within a few days. If the pain continues or worsens, visit a near by dentist, for an evaluation.

Is It Normal for a Tooth with Root Canal to Hurt When Pressed?

Some tenderness when pressing on the treated tooth is common and can be due to:

• Tissue Healing: The body repairs tissues around the root tip.
• Inflammation from Procedure: Cleaning and shaping the root canals can cause temporary irritation.
• Temporary Filling Pressure: The temporary filling might be slightly high, leading to pressure.

This type of pain should gradually decrease over time. However, if it persists or intensifies, it could indicate an issue that needs professional attention.

Common Causes of Pain Post a Root Canal

Several factors can cause pain or sensitivity after a root canal, including:

1. Inflammation or Infection

• Residual Bacteria: Sometimes bacteria remain in the tiny canal branches, leading to reinfection.
• Secondary Infection: Surrounding gums or bone may become infected.

Signs of infection include:

• Swelling around the tooth or gums
• Throbbing pain or pressure
• Fever or foul taste in the mouth

2. High Bite or Uneven Filling

If the filling or crown is too high, it puts extra pressure on the treated tooth, causing pain. Symptoms include:

• Sensitivity when biting down
• Discomfort while chewing
• General soreness in the jaw

This is easily fixed by adjusting the filling or crown for a proper bite.

3. Cracked Root or Fractured Tooth

A cracked root or tooth fracture can cause pain after a root canal. This may happen due to:

• Pressure during the procedure
• Biting down on hard foods
• Trauma or injury to the tooth

Signs include:

• Sharp pain when chewing
• Sensitivity to temperature changes
• Swelling around the affected area

In such cases, further evaluation and treatment are needed to save the tooth.

4. Incomplete Cleaning or Filling

If the root canals weren’t thoroughly cleaned or sealed, bacteria could cause infection and pain. This might occur due to:

• Complex root anatomy
• Missed canal branches
• Insufficient sealing

Symptoms include:

• Persistent pain or pressure
• Swelling or gum tenderness
• Discharge or a bad taste

A follow-up procedure, known as a root canal retreatment, may be necessary to fully clean and seal the canals.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While mild discomfort is normal, specific symptoms indicate a problem:

• Severe or Increasing Pain: If pain worsens instead of improving.
• Swelling and Redness: Signs of infection or abscess.
• Fever or Chills: Indicating a systemic infection.
• Persistent Sensitivity: Especially to hot or cold temperatures.
• Pain After a Week: Lingering pain should be evaluated.

How to Relieve Pain Post a Root Canal

Managing discomfort at home can make recovery more comfortable. Here are some effective ways:

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen reduces pain and inflammation.
• Saltwater Rinse: Warm saltwater soothes irritated tissues.
• Cold Compress: Apply a cold pack to the cheek for 15 minutes to reduce swelling.
• Soft Foods: Eat soft, non-chewy foods to minimize pressure on the tooth.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Keep the area sterilized by brushing gently and avoiding the treated tooth while flossing.

These remedies help manage mild discomfort. However, if pain persists, visit Hillcrest Dentistry for an evaluation.

When to Visit Hillcrest Dental Care

If discomfort continues or intensifies, visiting Hillcrest Dental Care ensures proper care. The team provides trusted and attentive service, evaluating the treated tooth to identify any underlying issues. Whether it’s an adjustment, retreatment, or further care, personalized solutions are provided to ease discomfort.

Whether you are looking for root canals in Waco, TX, or general dental care, Hillcrest Dentistry offers reliable and experienced guidance to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.

Key Takeaway

It is a known fact that tooth with a root canal hurts when pressure is put due to normal healing, inflammation, or bite issues. Mild discomfort is common and should decrease over time. However, persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection require professional attention.

Knowing when to seek help ensures proper care and avoids complications. Visiting a dentist in Waco, TX, helps identify the cause of discomfort and provides effective solutions.