Getting a root canal is supposed to bring relief, not more pain. But if you’re feeling discomfort or pressure on the tooth that had the procedure, you’re not alone.
Many patients experience some pain or sensitivity even after treatment. The good news? It’s usually temporary and manageable.
In this article, we’ll explain why your tooth with a root canal hurts with pressure, what may be causing the discomfort, and when to get professional help.
Feeling Severe Pain After a Root Canal?
Mild discomfort for a few days after a root canal is normal. Your mouth just went through a procedure, so it needs time to heal. But if you’re dealing with severe pain after a root canal, or the pain is getting worse, something might not be right.
Pressure pain, swelling, or a sharp ache when you bite down could mean that the area around your treated tooth is inflamed—or that the tooth hasn’t healed properly yet.
Don’t panic. This happens, and there are solutions.
Why Does a Tooth Hurt After a Root Canal?
There are a few common reasons why a tooth hurts after a root canal:
1. Inflammation or swelling
After treatment, your body may respond with inflammation. This can make the tooth sensitive to touch or pressure, especially if the nerves around it are still healing.
2. Bite misalignment
Sometimes, the tooth may be slightly higher than your other teeth. This small difference can cause pressure pain on the root canal tooth when you chew or bite down.
3. Infection not fully cleared
In rare cases, the infection may not have been completely removed. This can lead to ongoing or worsening pain, especially if the tooth wasn’t sealed properly.
4. Cracks in the tooth
If the tooth had a deep crack before or after the procedure, it may continue to cause discomfort. A crown can often help fix this issue.
Tips to Relieve Pressure Pain on a Root Canal
While some discomfort is normal during the healing process, ongoing sensitivity can affect daily life. Fortunately, there are simple things you can do at home to ease the pressure and help your tooth heal faster.
Below are some effective tips to reduce pain, protect the treated area, and support your recovery.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce swelling and pain.
- Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to soothe the area.
- Avoid chewing on the treated side until the pain goes down.
- Stick to soft foods to avoid putting extra pressure on the area.
- Practice good oral hygiene to help the healing process.
Remember, these are temporary solutions. If the pain continues for more than a few days, it’s time to reach out to your dentist.
When to look for professional help?
If the pain lasts more than a week, gets worse, or includes signs of infection like swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth, don’t wait. These are signs something’s wrong, and your dentist needs to take a closer look.
Healing Starts with the Right Dental Support
At Somos Dental, you can get the most affordable dental care without needing insurance, with payment plans available to fit your budget.
You can find our clinics in Phoenix and Dallas, ready to help.
Phoenix:
Your smile matters!
Taking care of it after a root canal is just part of the process. Reach us at 623-869-1091, or book your FREE CONSULTATION through our online form—contact us anytime via WhatsApp, Messenger, or text.
A tooth with a root canal that hurts with pressure can be frustrating, especially when you expected relief. But in most cases, the discomfort is temporary and treatable. Listen to your body, try at-home remedies, and don’t hesitate to contact your dentist if the pain sticks around.
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