Post-Root Canal Discomfort: Tooth Sensitivity and Pain

After root canal treatment, there may be some discomfort in the tooth?

Hello Doctor,
Last month, I underwent root canal treatment for a cavity in my second-to-last lower right molar, and I recently had a permanent crown placed.
I have a few questions I would like to ask you:
1.
During the treatment, I experienced pain in my right side teeth, which made it difficult to chew, so I relied on my left side for chewing.
Recently, I noticed some pain in the gums of the two lower molars on the cheek side.
I asked the dentist who treated me to take an X-ray, and he said everything looked normal and that it might be due to brushing too hard.
However, after a week, while there was slight improvement, I still feel pain when I press on it with my finger, specifically on the inside of the gums.
If it were due to brushing too hard, I would expect the outer side to hurt instead.
I am concerned that this condition might be due to overuse of my teeth during this period, possibly causing a crack.
(Both lower teeth have been filled.)
2.
The tooth that underwent root canal treatment does not hurt anymore, but sometimes I feel a slight soreness when biting down.
However, there is no pain when I clench my teeth tightly.
This condition has persisted for the past few weeks.
Will this eventually resolve over time?
Thank you, and best wishes,
Tony

Tony, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/27

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Tony,
Hello! As mentioned, after root canal treatment, there may be an initial inflammatory response at the apex of the tooth, which will gradually improve; however, it still depends on the specifics of the treatment.
Regarding tooth pain, cavities typically cause sensitivity to hot and cold, while periodontal disease presents with redness, swelling, and bleeding.
X-rays are necessary for diagnostic assistance.
Please communicate frequently with your dentist!
Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2016/10/27

More Info

Dear Tony,
Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your post-root canal treatment discomfort. It's quite common for patients to experience some level of discomfort after such procedures, and understanding the underlying causes can help alleviate concerns and guide appropriate management.

Firstly, regarding the pain in your left lower molars, it is possible that the discomfort you are experiencing is related to overuse of those teeth while your right side was healing. When one side of the mouth is compromised, patients often unconsciously shift their chewing to the opposite side, which can lead to increased stress on those teeth and surrounding structures. This can result in soreness in the gums, particularly if there is any inflammation or irritation present.
The fact that your X-rays showed no abnormalities is reassuring, but it does not entirely rule out issues such as periodontal inflammation or even bruxism (teeth grinding), which can cause discomfort in the gum tissue and tooth sensitivity. If you suspect that your brushing technique may be contributing to your discomfort, consider using a softer-bristled toothbrush and adopting a gentler brushing technique. It may also be beneficial to consult with your dentist about your brushing habits and whether a professional cleaning might help alleviate some of the gum irritation.

As for the slight discomfort you feel when biting down, this can be a normal part of the healing process after root canal treatment. The tooth may still be sensitive as the surrounding tissues recover. Over time, this sensitivity should diminish. However, if the discomfort persists or worsens, it may indicate that further evaluation is necessary. Sometimes, the tooth may require additional treatment if there is residual infection or if the root canal was not completely successful.

Regarding your concern about potential cracks or fractures in the teeth due to overuse, it is indeed possible for excessive force on a tooth to lead to microfractures, especially if the tooth has undergone significant treatment. If you notice any changes in the way your teeth align or if you experience sharp pain when biting, it would be prudent to have your dentist evaluate the situation further. They may recommend a bite adjustment or even a night guard if bruxism is suspected.

In summary, while some discomfort after root canal treatment is normal, persistent pain or sensitivity should not be ignored. It is essential to maintain open communication with your dentist about your symptoms. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation.
In the meantime, consider softening your diet to reduce stress on your teeth, and continue practicing good oral hygiene with gentle techniques. If symptoms persist, do not hesitate to return to your dentist for further evaluation.

Wishing you a smooth recovery and relief from your discomfort soon!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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