In root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected nerve and blood vessel tissue (pulp) inside the tooth is removed, and the canals are shaped and filled. Because the nerve tissue is removed, the tooth itself no longer senses hot and cold. Even so, feeling some sensitivity for a while after treatment is common.
Is sensitivity normal in the first days after treatment?
Yes. During root canal treatment, the tissues at the root tip can become somewhat irritated. So for the first few days there may be a mild ache or feeling of pressure, especially when biting or when the tooth is touched. This feeling usually eases within days.
Possible causes of sensitivity
Healing at the root tip
If there was inflammation at the root tip before treatment, the tissues may take a little longer to heal.
A high filling
If the filling or temporary filling placed after treatment is too high in the bite, the tooth takes extra load with every bite and sensitivity continues. This can be fixed with a simple adjustment.
Surrounding tissues and gums
The clamp of the rubber dam used during treatment or the injection site can cause short-term tenderness.
Fracture or crack
Root canal treated teeth can be more brittle. Sharp pain when biting may suggest a crack in the tooth.
An untreated extra canal or ongoing infection
Some teeth have extra canals that are hard to detect. Pain that lasts for weeks or gets worse, swelling or discharge needs to be reassessed.
When should you contact your dentist?
- If sensitivity lasts more than a week or keeps getting worse
- If swelling appears in the face or gums
- If you have a fever
- If you feel a sharp, sudden pain when biting
- If the filling or temporary filling has come out
Tips to reduce sensitivity
- Avoid chewing hard foods with the treated tooth until the permanent filling or crown is placed.
- Take the pain relief your dentist recommends at the recommended dose.
- Keep up good oral hygiene; do not avoid brushing the tooth.
- Tell your dentist if you clench your teeth.
Is a crown needed after root canal treatment?
Especially for back teeth, a crown may be recommended after root canal treatment to prevent the tooth from breaking. This decision depends on how much sound tooth structure remains.
For general information on tooth sensitivity, see our article why do teeth become sensitive?
