Root Canal Therapy is also known as endodontic therapy and it is a typical dental procedure performed to save a damaged or infected tooth.
Despite being an effective solution, many patients worry about side effects. In this article, you will learn the “Root Canal Therapy Side Effects” and how to avoid them.
Table of Contents (Root Canal Therapy Side Effects)
What is Root Canal Therapy (RCT)?
Root Canal Therapy is recommended when the soft tissue inside the tooth becomes infected. It can be caused by severe tartar build-up, prior to enormous work done on the particular tooth.
The procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and reshaping the canal, and ultimately filling it to prevent further infections.
Many people fear root canals, assuming the procedure is painful. However, with modern techniques, it’s almost painless. You may feel discomfort after Root Canal Therapy (RCT) rather than during the procedure.
Immediate Side Effects After Root Canal Therapy
1. Pain and Discomfort
After Root Canal Therapy, it’s common to experience mild to moderate pain and discomfort. This pain is attributed to the normal healing processes in the body. This discomfort can be relieved using ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
However, in some circumstances, a dentist uses stronger medicines to alleviate pain of a different level. Usually, it disappears in several days. However, if the pain lasts more than a week, it should not be disregarded, as it may mean that some complications occurred.
2. Swelling and Inflammation
Inflammation of the gum around the treated tooth is also a sign commonly seen in patients who undergo this procedure. This inflammation is due to the procedure and it may persist for a few days.
Swelling can be minimized by using ice packs and placing them on the outside of the cheek near the affected area. Dentists may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain.
3. Sensitivity
It’s quite common for the tooth that has just gone through the treatment to be sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages. This sensitivity should gradually decrease as the tooth begins to heal.
However, if the sensitivity lasts for more than a few weeks, it is wiser to visit your dentist since it may be a sign of an underlying issue.
4. Difficulty in Chewing
After the Root Canal Therapy, you may also experience difficulty chewing on the treated side of your mouth for several days.
It is also recommended not to consume hard and sticky foods which will add pressure on the healing tooth. Soft foods are advised until a tooth is fully recovered as this might take some time to heal.
Long-Term Side Effects of Root Canal Treatment (RCT)
Here are some long-term Root Canal Therapy side effects.
1. Infection
Although root canal treatment is meant to get rid of infection there might be a small chance of re-infection in case the tooth is not cleaned well or sealed.
Symptoms of infection include persistent pain, swelling, fever, or discharge from the area. However, if such symptoms are noticed, it is advisable to contact a dentist.
2. Tooth Discoloration
The treated tooth may darken over time, particularly if it was infected before the procedure. This discoloration occurs because there is no longer a living pulp inside the tooth to maintain its natural color.
3. Nerve Damage
The danger of nerve injury during the RCT is extremely small, but it does exist if the tooth’s roots are positioned near major nerves.
Possible symptoms with the injured nerve may include tangling or numbness within the area. If these symptoms continue, then a consultation might be necessary to deal with the problem.
4. Cracked or Weakened Tooth
The root canal therapy procedure makes the tooth structure fragile so it might easily break. This is why, after the procedure, the dentists advise the clients to cover the tooth with an additional crown.
If there is no crown, the chances of the tooth breaking under pressure are high and may result in other problems.
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Uncommon but Serious Side Effects of RCT
1. Allergic Reactions
Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to latex or to any anesthesia that may have been used during the root canal.
Some of the signs of an allergic reaction would be inflammation, shortness of breath, or the development of a rash. However, in case of an allergic reaction, seeking medical help is advisable as soon as possible.
2. Failed Root Canal
At times the root canal treatment does not completely eradicate the infection and this is referred to as a failed root canal.
They can occur when there is a residual disease, which means not all the affected tissue was removed or if the tooth did not close correctly.
The signs of an unsuccessful root canal are pain, inflammation, and sensitivity in the affected area. In such circumstances, treatment may be repeated or the tooth might have to be extracted.
3. Sinus Complications
In case the tooth is in the upper jaw then it can be possible to have sinus complications if the root of the tooth is near the sinus cavity.
In case you feel sinus pain or pressure after a root canal, you should let your dentist know so they can determine if further treatment is required.
Preventing The Root Canal Therapy Side Effects
There are some ways to prevent the Root Canal Therapy side effects.
1. Pre-Procedure Precautions
Regarding the risk factors associated with RCT, it’s important to provide a detailed medical history to minimize the chances of complications after the procedure.
This way the dentist can know of any effects such as allergies or other medical conditions that can lead to side effects. Before RCT, the dentist has to examine the tooth fully using X-rays to identify any issues that may be present.
2. Post-Procedure Care
It is crucial to take proper aftercare after the procedure to avoid pain and infections. You should follow your dentist’s advice, which includes taking prescribed medications and maintaining good oral hygiene.
It is also important to have a check-up after the treatment to assess the healing of the treated tooth.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Even though the majority of the side effects associated with root canal therapy are usually minor and fade away within a few days, some signs require you to contact your dentist.
You should contact your dentist if you have persistent pain, swelling, fever, or symptoms of a possible infection.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is one of the most effective procedures to save a damaged tooth. However, it is advisable to know the possible side effects of Root Canal Therapy.
Most of these Root Canal Therapy side effects can be minimized or avoided with appropriate precautions and medical supervision. Therefore, follow your dentist’s advice to ensure a smoother recovery process.