A root canal can save a tooth, but also bring pain afterward. You are not alone if you feel throbbing pain in your tooth.
Many ask, “How to stop throbbing pain after root canal?” We will share easy steps you can take at home.
We will also cover when to call your dentist and how to make things feel better faster.
Simple advice for post-root canal care can help you transition smoothly into eating.
What Causes Throbbing After Root Canal?
After a root canal, your tooth is cleaned and filled. This can affect the tissues around it. Your body sends blood to the area to heal.
This extra blood is what makes the tooth feel like it’s throbbing.
- Inflammation: Your body fights the tiny amount of bacteria left behind.
- Pressure Build-up: Fluids collect around the treated root.
- Healing Process: New cells grow to repair the tooth’s interior.
This throbbing is normal for a day or two. But if it lasts longer, you should immediately try ways to ease root canal pain.
Quick Tips to Stop Throbbing Pain After a Root Canal
Cold Compress
- Place a bag of frozen peas or a cold pack on the cheek close to the tooth that has been treated.
- Do this in 15 minute bursts.
- This helps reduce swelling and numbs pain.
Elevate Your Head
- Keep your head propped up with an extra pillow when you lie down.
- Less blood rushes to the mouth, so the throbbing eases.
Gentle Rinsing
- Pour a glass of warm water with half a teaspoon of salt.
- After 20 seconds of swishing it around in your mouth, spit it out.
- This helps clean the area and soothes soreness.
Clove Oil
- Dip a cotton ball in clove oil.
- Press it gently on the sore tooth.
- Clove oil has natural numbing power.
Peppermint Tea Bag
- Steep a peppermint tea bag, then let it cool.
- Press it on the painful spot for 5–10 minutes.
- Peppermint can soothe and calm the area.
Over-The-Counter Medicines to Ease Root Canal Pain
OTC medicines step in where quick tips fall short. Read the bottle instructions, then seek dental advice when in doubt about any information.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Take 200–400 mg every 6–8 hours.
- This lowers inflammation and pain.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Take 325–500 mg every 4–6 hours.
- Good if you cannot take ibuprofen.
Combination Pain Relievers
- Some bottles mix ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
- Follow the label directions carefully.
Don’t take more than advised. If one type of medicine does not work, you can switch to another. But never take both simultaneously unless your dentist says it’s okay.
Simple Post-Root Canal Care to Prevent Pain
Good care after the procedure can cut down the pain you feel. Use these steps as part of your routine:
Gentle Brushing
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- Brush twice daily, but avoid the treated tooth for the first day.
Flossing with Care
- Floss gently around the treated tooth.
- Do this once a day to keep food bits away.
Avoid Hard Foods
- Stay away from nuts, chips, and hard candies.
- Choose soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
No Chewing on That Side
- Let your tooth rest until the permanent crown or filling is placed.
- Chew on the other side of your mouth.
Adding these post-root canal care tips to your day can cut down on extra pain and heal faster.
Diet Tips and Follow-up Care
What you eat matters, too. Here are some ideas:
Soft Foods to Try
- Applesauce, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, smoothies.
- These foods are easy on your teeth and gums.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink enough water.
- Avoid very hot or cold drinks for at least 24 hours.
Follow-up Visits
- Go back to your dentist in 1–2 weeks.
- They will check the healing and add a crown if needed.
A good diet and follow-up care help you get back to normal quickly.
When to Call Your Dentist
Most pain after a root canal gets better in a few days. But call your dentist if you notice:
- Severe pain that does not ease with medicine.
- Swelling in your face or gums that gets worse.
- A bad taste or smell in your mouth.
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C).
- Loose tooth or crown.
If these happen, you might need more treatment. Your dentist can look for infection or other issues.
Dealing with pain after a root canal? Let the friendly team at Moorestown Smile Center help you feel better with trusted care. Contact us today!
Conclusion
After a root canal, managing pain can be frightening.
Although there are easy ways to stop throbbing pain. Use a cold pack, rinse with salt water, and take the right medicine.
This way, you can get back to your life.
Follow the simple rules of post-root canal care, along with soft food consumption and receive dental checkups when required.
Your tooth will regain its normal condition and the pain will disappear.
FAQs
Can I eat after a root canal?
Yes, but eat soft foods. Something like yogurt or soup. Avoid hard or sticky foods on the treated side.
What home care helps ease root canal pain?
Use a cold pack on your cheek, rinse with warm salt water, and rest with your head raised.
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