Is Pain Normal After Root Canal Treatment on Upper Molars?

Tooth pain after root canal treatment?

Doctor, after undergoing root canal treatment on my upper right molar about a month ago, I still haven't had a crown placed.
I experience pain when lightly tapping on it, and there is discomfort when I bite down with a bit more force.
Is this normal?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/19

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If there is still pain after root canal treatment, and tapping on the tooth causes discomfort, it indicates that there may still be inflammation of the dental nerve or an ongoing infection at the root apex.
It is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment for further examination by a dentist.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/07/19

More Info

Experiencing pain after root canal treatment, especially on upper molars, can be a common occurrence, but it is essential to understand the underlying reasons and what might be considered normal versus what may require further attention.
Root canal treatment is designed to remove infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth, followed by cleaning, shaping, and filling the root canals. After the procedure, it is not unusual for patients to experience some degree of discomfort or pain. This discomfort can arise from several factors:
1. Inflammation: The process of cleaning and shaping the root canals can cause inflammation in the surrounding tissues. This inflammation can lead to soreness and sensitivity, especially when pressure is applied to the tooth.

2. Incomplete Treatment: If there are multiple canals in the tooth (which is often the case with molars), and if not all of them were adequately treated, residual infection or inflammation can persist, leading to ongoing pain. This is particularly relevant for upper molars, which can have complex canal systems.

3. Post-Operative Sensitivity: After the procedure, the tooth may be more sensitive to temperature changes and pressure. This sensitivity can last for several days to weeks, but if it persists beyond that, it may indicate a problem.

4. Bite Issues: If the tooth is not properly aligned after the root canal treatment, it can lead to discomfort when biting down. This misalignment can cause undue stress on the tooth, resulting in pain.

5. Infection: In some cases, if the infection was not entirely resolved during the root canal treatment, it can lead to persistent pain. This may require further intervention, such as retreatment or additional procedures.

Given that you mentioned experiencing pain when lightly tapping or applying pressure to the tooth, it is advisable to consult your dentist. While some discomfort can be expected, persistent or worsening pain, especially after a month without a crown, may indicate that further evaluation is necessary. Your dentist may recommend taking X-rays to check for any signs of infection or to ensure that all canals were adequately treated.

In summary, while some pain and discomfort after root canal treatment can be normal, especially in the first few days, ongoing pain after a month warrants further investigation. It is crucial to communicate any persistent symptoms to your dentist, as they can provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment options tailored to your specific situation. Remember, timely intervention can prevent more severe complications and ensure the long-term success of your dental treatment.

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