Root Canal: How to Manage Pain After Treatment

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, there’s no cause for concern. Root canals are not only safe, but they’re also very effective at treating severe tooth infection to avoid having your tooth removed. Greenway Dental Group is the best place to go for root canal treatment in Greenbelt, Maryland. These FAQs explain more about root canals and why they’re needed.

What is a root canal?

Untreated decay or injury can allow bacteria to infiltrate the pulp of your tooth and damage your tooth nerves. A root canal stops the infection by removing the diseased pulp. Afterward, we’ll disinfect and seal your tooth with a special filling to prevent future infection and decay. The last step is crowning your tooth to reinforce its structure for future use.

How do I know I need a root canal?

Persistent tooth pain is one of the first signs of an infection in the inner chamber of your tooth. Other symptoms include sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, gum swelling and tenderness, a change in tooth color, or tooth looseness and movement. A visit to your Greenbelt, Maryland dentist will determine if these symptoms warrant root canal treatment.

Do root canals hurt?

Root canals are relatively painless as they’re performed under local anesthesia. Dental sedation is also an option to keep you comfortable and relaxed in the dental chair. Once the infected pulp is removed, the pain caused by the infection will cease. However, you may experience some pain, gum soreness, and/or tenderness after your procedure. We recommend ice packs and OTC pain medication to manage these symptoms.

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New Patients: (301) 778-2806 | Existing Patients: (301) 345-2880
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Is a root canal a better option than extraction?

Like most dental professionals, we prefer saving natural teeth whenever possible to keep your smile intact. Although there are various options for replacing lost teeth, none truly match the appearance of natural teeth. Restoring your tooth also saves you the expense of extraction and replacement later down the line.

How do I care for my tooth after root canal treatment?

Good brushing and flossing habits and routine dental visits are key aspects of root canal aftercare. Good oral care will protect your tooth from future infection and decay and keep it going strong long-term. To protect your tooth from accidental damage, avoid eating hard foods, wear protective mouth gear to play sports, and don’t use your teeth like tools.

How do I avoid a root canal?

Practice good oral hygiene daily, avoid sugary and acidic foods as they weaken your teeth, and see your dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleanings. These practices will help keep your teeth strong and healthy over the long haul. Through routine dental visits, we can spot and treat problems quicker to keep them from becoming major issues that require a root canal or other invasive treatment.

Where should I go for a root canal near me?

Look no further than Greenway Dental Group in Greenbelt, MD. Contact us at (301) 778-2806 for all your restorative dental needs.

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Dr. Alex Shklyar

Dr. Alex Shklyar is a highly skilled Cosmetic and General Dentist based in Greenbelt, MD. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Maryland, College Park, and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland’s Baltimore College of Dental Surgery in 2005. Dr. Shklyar completed advanced training at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Baltimore, specializing in dental implants, ClearCorrect, and cosmetic procedures like veneers and CEREC crowns. Recognized by the Maryland Academy of General Dentistry and published in dental journals, Dr. Shklyar is committed to providing exceptional care with trust and expertise.