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

• 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.