Root canals are designed to relieve pain—not cause it. So if you’ve recently had a root canal and your tooth still feels sensitive, you might be wondering: Is this normal? The good news is that mild discomfort or sensitivity after a root canal is quite common and usually short-lived. But it’s important to understand what kind of sensitivity is typical—and when you should be concerned.
Let’s explore why sensitivity happens after a root canal and what you can do about it.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside a tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the area is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection. This helps save the natural tooth and eliminates the source of pain or decay.
While the nerve inside the tooth is removed during the procedure, surrounding tissues and structures (like the ligaments and bone) can still be sensitive for a short time afterward.
Why Do You Feel Sensitivity After a Root Canal?
Even though the nerve is gone, the surrounding tissues may still respond to the recent dental work. Common causes of sensitivity include:
1. Inflammation Around the Tooth
During the procedure, instruments may irritate the tissue around the root, causing temporary inflammation. This can lead to mild soreness or tenderness when biting down.
2. Healing Process
Like any medical procedure, your body needs time to heal. Sensitivity may linger for a few days or even up to a week as the tooth and surrounding area settle down.
3. High Bite
If the new filling or crown sits too high, it can create extra pressure when you chew, which may trigger pain or discomfort. This is easily adjusted by your dentist.
4. Temporary Filling
Some root canals are completed over multiple visits. If you have a temporary filling, it might not fit as well or seal the tooth completely, causing minor discomfort.
What’s Normal and What’s Not?
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand if what you’re feeling is part of the healing process—or something to check with your dentist.
| Type of Sensation | Is It Normal? |
|---|---|
| Mild soreness or tenderness | ✅ Yes, common for a few days |
| Sensitivity when chewing | ✅ Normal for a short period |
| Sharp pain that gets worse | ❌ No, may need attention |
| Swelling or pus | ❌ No, possible infection |
| Fever or a bad taste | ❌ No, signs of complication |
How to Manage Sensitivity After a Root Canal
- Take pain relievers as recommended by your dentist, usually ibuprofen or paracetamol.
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth for a few days.
- Eat soft foods and skip anything too hot or cold.
- Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and saltwater rinses if advised.
- Follow up with your dentist for permanent restoration, such as a crown, which protects the tooth.
When to Call Your Dentist
If the pain persists longer than a week, intensifies, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or signs of infection, it’s time to call your dentist. A follow-up visit can help identify if there’s an issue such as a missed canal, a crack in the tooth, or reinfection.
Final Thoughts
Tooth sensitivity after a root canal doesn’t always mean something is wrong. In most cases, it’s just a part of the healing process and should gradually improve on its own. That said, staying in touch with your dentist and attending all follow-up appointments is the best way to ensure your tooth heals properly and stays pain-free.
Got questions or concerns about your root canal recovery? Reach out to your dental care team—they’re here to help you every step of the way.
