You might feel nervous when you hear “You need a root canal,” but here’s the truth: It’s not as scary as you think! The actual procedure is supposed to remove pain, not cause it. But what about afterward? Will you be left with a throbbing, painful tooth?

The good news is that the majority of patients experience just a little bit of discomfort after a root canal, and pain management is usually a breeze. Some will not even need painkillers, while others can be helped with over-the-counter medication.

Let’s break it down so you understand what to expect and how to be comfortable during the recovery phase after a root canal.

Recognizing Post-Root Canal Pain

Root canals eliminate infected tissue, but your body still requires some time to recover. A little pain following the procedure is completely normal. Here’s why:

• Inflammation: The tissues around the area may become inflamed and cause some swelling.
• Healing Process: Your body will attempt to heal the treated area, which is painful.
• Jaw Sensitivity: Your mouth will be open for a long time during treatment, and this could cause temporary stiffness of the jaw.

How Long Does the Pain Last?

Most people have some discomfort for a few days, with the pain being at its worst in the first 24–48 hours. Then, the pain fades gradually. If the pain lasts longer than a week or gets worse, it could be a sign of something that needs to be checked by your dentist.

Do You Need Painkillers?

Pain management varies based on how uncomfortable you feel. Some patients get by with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, but others will need something more potent.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Relief

Most dentists prescribe the use of generic OTC drugs to manage post-root canal pain, including:

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Manages pain and swelling.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Similar to pain control but does nothing for swelling.

Taking acetaminophen and ibuprofen together (as instructed by your dentist) can be more effective in controlling pain. But take always as directed to prevent side effects.

When Is a Prescription Pain Medicine Required?

Occasionally, a dentist will prescribe stronger pain medicine, including:

• Opioids (such as hydrocodone or codeine): Only for bad pain and most commonly for a short duration.
• Steroids: In case of severe inflammation, a brief course of steroids might be recommended.

The majority of patients improve with OTC drugs, and prescription pain medications are seldom necessary. 

Other Pain Relief Techniques

If you do not wish to use medication or require more relief, the following easy techniques may be suitable:

• Apply a Cold Wrap: Placing an ice bag on your cheek for around 10–15 minutes at a time can minimize swelling and numb pain.
• Use a Warm Saltwater Rinse: Swishing warm salt water gently can be healing and soothe the area.
• Avoid Chewing on the Treated Side: This is to avoid applying undue pressure to the tooth during the healing process.
• Get Plenty of Rest: Give your body a chance to heal by refraining from heavy-duty activities for the first day.
• Stick to Soft Foods: Opt for soups, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to avoid irritation.

While some discomfort after a root canal is normal, it’s usually manageable with OTC pain relievers and simple at-home care. Most patients don’t require prescription painkillers, but if your pain worsens or lasts longer than expected, contacting your dentist is important. By following post-treatment instructions and taking care of your mouth, you’ll be back to normal in no time.

If you have any questions regarding your recovery, do not hesitate to contact our dentist for advice!