Root Canal Treatment and Orthodontic Concerns

Q: Root Canal Treatment and Orthodontic Concerns

Hello： 1. <br>After completing root canal treatment, there may be temporary discomfort due to stimulation of the nerves in the alveolar bone at the root tip. <br>It is recommended to continue monitoring the situation! 2. <br>It is advisable to discuss with your orthodontist, espe

Root canal treatment and orthodontics?

Hello, doctor! For my first root canal treatment, the nerve of my upper right front tooth has been removed.
However, when I got home, I felt a "throbbing" sensation (similar to a pulse) that isn't painful but feels swollen, and there is slight pain when I apply pressure.
Is this throbbing sensation normal? Why does it still hurt when pressure is applied after the nerve has been removed? Will I definitely need a dental post for a crown on my front tooth?
For the second issue, I have been undergoing orthodontic treatment for three years and recently just got my retainer.
However, the retainer only makes contact with my canine teeth.
When I asked my treating dentist, he said that retainers are not meant for biting.
Later, when I took the retainer out to eat, I found that I can only bite with my back molars, and the other teeth do not touch at all.
Additionally, the bite feels strange with the molars, as it doesn't feel like a complete occlusion; even slight movement feels like grinding my teeth, making eating very uncomfortable.
Is this normal?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/14

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
After completing root canal treatment, there may be temporary discomfort due to stimulation of the nerves in the alveolar bone at the root tip.
It is recommended to continue monitoring the situation! 2.
It is advisable to discuss with your orthodontist, especially regarding the occlusion of the posterior teeth, to determine if any further orthodontic adjustments are needed for proper alignment.

Reply Date: 2022/08/14

More Info

Root canal treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection or damage to the pulp of a tooth. It involves the removal of the nerve and pulp tissue, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling it to prevent further infection. Your experience of feeling a "pulsating" sensation after the procedure, while not uncommon, can be concerning.
The sensation you describe as a "throbbing" or "pulsating" feeling, akin to a heartbeat, may be due to several factors. After a root canal, it is normal for the tooth and surrounding tissues to be sensitive, especially if there was significant inflammation or infection prior to the treatment. The pressure you feel when you apply slight force could be due to residual inflammation in the area, which can take time to resolve. It is essential to monitor this sensation; if it persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult your dentist. They may want to check for any complications, such as an incomplete cleaning of the canal or a possible reinfection.

Regarding your question about whether you will need a dental post (often referred to as a "dental pin" or "core build-up") after the root canal treatment, this typically depends on the extent of the damage to the tooth. If a significant portion of the tooth structure has been lost, a post may be necessary to provide support for the crown that will eventually be placed on the tooth. Your dentist will evaluate the tooth's integrity and make a recommendation based on that assessment.

As for your orthodontic concerns, it sounds like you are experiencing some issues with your retainer and bite alignment. Retainers are designed to maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment, but they should not cause discomfort or interfere with your ability to bite properly. If you find that your retainer only allows you to bite on certain teeth (like your canines) and not on your molars, this could indicate that the retainer is not fitting correctly or that your bite has shifted during treatment.

It is not unusual for patients to feel some discomfort or odd sensations when transitioning to a retainer, especially after a long period of orthodontic treatment. However, if you feel that your bite is not aligning correctly or if you experience discomfort while eating, it is crucial to return to your orthodontist for an evaluation. They may need to adjust the retainer or assess your bite to ensure that everything is functioning as it should.
In summary, both your root canal treatment and orthodontic concerns warrant close attention. For the root canal, monitor the pulsating sensation and consult your dentist if it persists. Regarding your orthodontic retainer, if you are experiencing discomfort or improper bite alignment, do not hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist for adjustments or further evaluation. Proper communication with your dental care providers is key to ensuring your treatments are successful and comfortable.

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