How to Treat Root Canal Pain

Modern root canal treatments typically result in minimal pain. However, you are likely to experience some swelling and discomfort for a few hours or days after the treatment. Follow these tips to alleviate the pain from root canal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Treat the root canal pain with ibuprofen. Most dentists recommend that you take a high dose of ibuprofen to relieve the inflammation and pain associated with the procedure.
2. Ask for a prescription-strength pain reliever. If a dentist wants to make sure you don't suffer from root canal pain, she may give you a prescription for pain medicine.
3. Use Orajel. Orajel is an over-the-counter gel that can temporarily numb the painful areas within your mouth.
4. As soon as you get home, put an ice pack on the treated area. This will numb the area and reduce swelling.
5. Eat a soft diet. For the first few days after a root canal, eat only soft foods. Hard and crunchy foods can irritate the area and cause pain.
6. Contact your dentist if the pain does not subside. Pain that is persistent can be a sign of an infection.

Tips & Warnings

• You should eat on the opposite side of your mouth for a few days after the procedure. This will protect the area.
• Avoid smoking for at least the first day. Smoking can delay healing.