Causes of Pain After a Root Canal

It is normal to experience some discomfort following a root canal. After the anesthetic wears off, you can generally expect some soreness and moderate discomfort. You should not experience any sharp pain as long as you follow your dentist’s instructions.

Causes of Pain After a Root Canal

Before leaving the office, your dentist will tell you what kind of over-the-counter pain medications you can safely take. Using a regular dose should be enough to dull any discomfort and keep you comfortable through the first couple of days of recovery following your root canal in Arcadia.

If your pain does not fade within two or three days, or if it becomes worse, then you need to contact your dentist in Arcadia. There are several potential complications that could cause you to continue feeling pain, and it is best to address them as soon as possible.

What Pain Is Normal?

A root canal is a fairly routine procedure, but it can be traumatic for the tooth and surrounding tissue. In the first day or so following a root canal, you can expect the surrounding area to feel a bit swollen and tender.

During this time period, you should refrain from drinking very cold liquids. Also, you should avoid chewing as much as possible. A cool, but not ice-cold, liquid diet is a great choice for the first day. By day two and three you should be comfortable moving onto soft foods.

As long as everything went to plan, the swelling should be down by day three or four. You may experience some occasional tenderness, but the pain should be subsiding. If the pain stays the same or gets worse, that is a sign that you may have a complication causing pain after your root canal.

Root Canal Complications

Most root canals have zero complications, but that doesn’t mean something can’t go wrong. These are some of the most common issues that could crop up.

A Canal Was Missed

Your teeth have several tiny canals going down to the root. During a root canal, it is possible to miss one, which would leave some of the infection in place. If it turns out that this is the case with your tooth, then the root canal will need to be redone.

The Infection Reached the Bone

Your dentist will take x-rays to determine the extent of your infection, but it is possible for the infection to progress between your x-rays and your procedure. If the infection has reached the jaw bone, then you will continue to experience pain until that infection is treated.

The Filling or Crown Is the Wrong Size

If the filling or the crown is over-sized, then it will affect your bite. When one tooth doesn’t fit with the rest of your bite, it takes on more surface pressure than the others. This can cause discomfort and even pain when you’re chewing. Fortunately, it’s usually an easy fix.

There Are Leaks in the Filling

The filling is intended as a seal to protect your tooth from further infection. If there’s a leak, then bacteria in your mouth could travel through the opening and re-infect the tooth. A second root canal may be necessary in this case.

Dealing with Root Canal Complications

Root canal complications are never fun. The good news is that they’re usually pretty easy to address, especially if you have the complication treated right away.

If you are experiencing serious pain or you notice that the pain isn’t going away with a few days of your procedure, then it is best to contact your dentist for an immediate evaluation.


Top Root Canal Myths

Patients who have never undergone a root canal procedure may be traumatized just by the mention of a “root canal.” Media often portray root canals as a torture experience reminiscent of medieval times. Although endodontics is often portrayed as a painful and dangerous procedure, dentists want to remind you that this is not the case. Most of these terrible stories are just myths that have become more exaggerated over the years.

Top Root Canal Myths

Root canals can save your teeth from having to be completely removed. Let’s talk about root canals and what’s involved when you visit your dentist in Arcadia for this type of procedure. Below, you’ll find the 5 top root canal myths we hear about and what the truth really is.

Root Canals Cause Pain

Many horror stories have been told about root canals that are painful and dangerous. Modern technology makes this procedure painless. The entire procedure is painless because it is completely numbed. You can choose to have local or complete anesthesia in some instances. The area can experience swelling or soreness while healing but this will quickly disappear.

Extractions Are Better Than Root Canals

Another myth is that an extract is more effective than a root canal. General extractions are less expensive but you will end up spending more in the long term because you will need to fill any space left behind. Root canals can save your tooth and prevent you from having to deal with a broken or missing tooth. Root canals can prevent bad infections from spreading further inside your mouth. This could lead to more broken teeth down the road.

Root Canals Cause People to Get Sick

Modern root canals are safer than traditional ones. Root canals can be safely and are not at risk of any diseases. It is best to save natural teeth if possible. Root canals are more likely to prevent you from becoming sick than make you become sick.

All Root Canals are a Dental Emergency

You should always be able call an emergency dentist to get root canal treatment performed quickly. Some people might experience milder symptoms while others may experience more serious problems. If you have severe pain, bleeding or damage to your pulp, it is important that you seek emergency dentistry treatment right away. You should not assume that your tooth infection is serious. Call your endodontist immediately if you are unsure. Although not all root canals need to be performed immediately, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Root Canal Surgery Has a Long Road to Recovery

Patients may be more afraid of the recovery than they are of the actual procedure. Although you might feel some sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, it’s not too severe. An endodontist removed the affected tooth. If you are experiencing severe pain, your dentist or doctor may prescribe pain relief medication. If you feel something is not right, it should only last a few days.

We offer Root Canal Treatments. Contact Us Today!

Our endodontic specialists can help you learn more about the best treatments for tooth infections. After scheduling a consultation with your dentist, you can find out more about the safe and easy way to get a root canal in Arcadia. Root canal treatment can seem scary to many, but our friendly professionals will help you overcome your fears and make it as painless as possible. From beginning to end, the root canal experience should be fast and without any trauma. To learn more, contact our friendly dental experts and schedule a personal consultation for the betterment of your dental health.


Failed Root Canal Symptoms

A root canal involves the removal of the center portion of your teeth, often referred to as the “pulp.” The pulp is made up of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. The dental procedure is necessary when that portion of your tooth becomes infected, injured, or inflamed. The procedure is highly effective, but it can fail in some cases. Below you will find the most common failed root canal symptoms.

Failed Root Canal Symptoms

Root canals have over a 95% success rate. However, there are some cases where a root canal can fail. If you see any of the following signs of a failed root canal, contact a dental professional immediately.

  • Pain: Some pain is normal after a root canal so it’s important to talk with your dentist in Arcadia about how you are feeling. You should experience mild pain for just a few days. If your pain is persistent and lasts beyond the first few days after your procedure, it may be a cause for concern. Pain after the first few days is often caused by inflammation.
  • Inflammation is often a sign of an infection so it’s important to get it examined right away.
    Swelling: Some swelling is also normal after your root canal procedure. In fact, some patients experience swelling for one to three days post-procedure. Usually over-the-counter medication can help reduce your symptoms. However, swelling beyond the third day is a sign of an infection. This is serious and should be addressed with your dentist immediately.
  • Discharge: Pus or discharge should not occur, even right after your procedure. If you notice pus or discharge (especially if it’s mixed with blood) after your root canal, it is a cause for concern. Pus and abnormal discharge are often associated with an infection. You need treatment right away if your root canal has failed and there are any lingering signs of infection.

Treatment for a Failed Root Canal

Getting a root canal in Arcadia after a failed root canal is necessary for your dental and overall health. The treatment is essentially the same as the original root canal as the focus is to remove the infected, inflamed, or injured pulp from your tooth. The purpose of a root canal is to remove the bacteria from the inside of your tooth. This is done through drilling a small hole into your tooth and then removing the material inside.

The area is disinfected to ensure there is nothing left behind. When the pulp is removed your tooth is then sealed to ensure nothing can get in or out. If your first root canal failed, a dentist will reopen your tooth to get back in to clean everything out. While nobody wants to have back to back root canals, it is necessary for your health. If you are concerned that you may need a root canal, contact the team at Premier Dental Esthetics.

Benefits of a Root Canal

The risks associated with an untreated root canal can be serious. This is why a root canal is a highly beneficial treatment as it preserves your natural tooth and improves your oral health. There are a number of benefits to a root canal including the prevention of tooth loss, infecting neighboring teeth, and it prevents jaw bone degeneration. The procedure is also cost-effective and can help save you on future dental bills. Failing to get a root canal can result in a number of dental issues later on. A root canal can preserve your natural tooth, but if left untreated, you may need tooth extraction and a tooth replacement. If you are concerned you may need a root canal, contact a dental professional immediately.


Dangers of Gum Disease

As one of the leading causes of infection and death among adults across the entire world, the dangers of gum disease cannot go understated. Through a series of stages, gum disease advances through the mouth until it spreads the infection to your whole body. It can be prevented and treated at its earlier stages, but it becomes harder to treat the more advanced it gets.

Dangers of Gum Disease

Below, our dentist in Arcadia will speak on the biggest dangers of gum disease while helping you learn the different stages of this condition. You’ll become more familiar with what to expect and how to spot the signs and symptoms of gum disease early so you can get the best treatment.

Risks of Gum Disease

Gum disease can put you at risk for decay, infection, disease, and even death. You might be more at risk for periodontitis and other forms of gum disease if you pose any of these risks already:

  • Bad health habits
  • Smoking and drinking heavily
  • Pregnancy or hormonal changes
  • Prior diagnosis of gingivitis
  • Nutrition deficiency
  • Poor diet and obesity
  • Genetic predisposition

If you are at risk of gum disease or you have been previously diagnosed, it is important to reach out to your dentist to get the best treatment ASAP. The longer you wait, the worse your disease will get. This can lead to more advanced dental health issues down the line that can cost you your wallet – and possibly even your life.

Stages of Gum Disease

The best way to practice prevention is to visit your dentist regularly and teach yourself how to recognize the different stages of gum disease. You can find them as follows:

Stage 1: The Early Signs

Gum disease can sometimes be hard to spot in its early stages, as there may not be any symptoms. It will not be until the next stage that you start to notice swollen gums or painful teeth.

You might notice some slight bleeding when you eat hard food such as candy or apples. If the bleeding becomes more severe, keep an eye out and contact your dentist immediately.

Stage 2: Gingivitis

This is the most serious and easily reversible part of gum disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. This is when you start to notice symptoms like swelling, irritation, or sensitivity. You will notice symptoms that cause you pain when this stage is complete. You can begin treatment with prescribed products that will reverse the effects of gingivitis by visiting your dentist.

Stage 3: Periodontitis

Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if not treated quickly and effectively. Inflammed, tender gums can develop early in gum disease. These gums will likely be very painful. Your gums may also be prone to bleeding when you brush your teeth.

Your gums might have become pale and your teeth may feel loose. You should immediately call your dentist if you notice this. This will ensure that your teeth end up saved.

Stage 4: Moderate Gum Disease

Moderate periodontitis appears as visible receding gums and jawbone disintegration. Your gums recede and expose your roots, causing them to fall out. It is also easier for decay and infection to spread throughout the mouth. Your gum disease can become more severe the longer you let it spread. If your gum disease proves advanced, you should immediately contact a doctor.

Stage 5: Advanced Gum Disease

Advanced periodontitis is a condition that can only be treated if the gum disease is not treated. You will almost certainly lose one or more of your teeth in this period, and your gums could never heal without surgery.

You may be able if your gum disease is detected early enough to receive antibiotic treatment. There is not much you can do if the disease is advanced. It may be necessary to remove your teeth and look for more advanced restorative dentistry options.

Recognize and Treat Gum Disease ASAP!

Experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms of gum disease? Or worried about ending up too late for treatment? Reach out to our Smiles of Arcadia specialists ASAP. We offer advanced gum disease treatment in Arcadia that you can follow along with a personalized treatment plan depending on the nature of your gums.


Can I Wait to Treat a Tooth Infection

A tooth infection is a medical issue that needs to be addressed due to the nature of its ability to spread. Tooth infections often start out as what may seem to be a harmless toothache. However, a toothache can turn into a tooth infection quickly if left untreated. A tooth infection is referred to as a dental abscess and can be hazardous for your health if it’s not treated immediately. Other words, do not wait to treat a tooth infection.

Can I Wait to Treat a Tooth Infection: Tooth Infection Symptoms

Tooth infections start when bacteria get into your teeth through cracks or cavities. Below are some of the common symptoms of a tooth infection. If you experience any of these, make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible.

  • Sensitivity to pressure or temperature
  • Throbbing in the tooth or jawbone area
  • Tooth or jaw pain
  • Cheek swelling
  • Fever

If left untreated, a tooth infection can spread to other parts of your body which can cause major issues. This can be serious and even life-threatening if not taken care of. Below are some of the symptoms that should alert you that your tooth infection has spread.

  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Fever
  • Sweating
  • Chills
  • Flushed skin
  • Facial swelling
  • Dehydration
  • Increased heart rate
  • Diarrhea or vomiting

Can I Wait to Treat a Tooth Infection: Dangers of Untreated Tooth Infections

Leaving a tooth infection untreated is problematic and can cause more health concerns than just your tooth. Below are some of the common dangers that can occur if you leave your tooth infection untreated.

  • Tooth Loss: If you get treated early you can save your tooth. Root canal therapy and a crown can allow your natural tooth to remain in your mouth. However, the infection can cause tooth loss if you are not careful and fail to get treatment early on.
  • Bone Infection: A tooth infection can impact and infect the surrounding bone area in your jaw and face. Facial bones are not equipped to withstand an infection long term.
  • Septicemia: This occurs when your blood becomes infected by the tooth infection. This is highly dangerous and requires hospitalization.

Root Canal Treatment Arcadia

Your dentist will likely do whatever possible to save your natural tooth. However, some infected teeth cannot stay in your mouth as they could cause more harm. With that, your dentist may need to perform a root canal to ensure that the infection does not spread to the rest of your body. Root canals sound much worse than they are, and it is an important treatment option that can help keep you healthy. Oftentimes the procedure is painless, and the recovery time is fairly fast. This is especially true if you have a skilled dental professional with experience.

Preventative Care

Avoiding dental issues is beneficial for your dental and overall health. It’s important to focus on preventative measures to ensure optimal oral health. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. You should also floss at least once a day and use mouthwash with fluoride to further protect your enamel. Lastly, you should be visiting the dentist at least every six months. This is vital for your oral health, heart health, and overall health. Talk with your doctor as you may need to visit more often, depending on your unique dental needs.

Dentists Near Arcadia

If you think you have a tooth infection and need treatment, contact Premier Dental Esthetics. Their dentists can provide you with the best care possible and ensure you get the right treatments for your unique dental needs. Their goal is to get you back to health quickly and effectively. Contact their office and make an appointment today!