Severe pain after root canal?

Question

I had a root canal done 2 days ago, and even though it has only been 2 days, this was not my first rodeo. I have had at least 3 root canals done over the past 10 years. I do not remember having any pain after any of the previous procedures and that's why I am concerned about the severe pain that I am experiencing now. I am reluctant to go to an endo since my insurance will not cover it and I know that the procedure can be very costly. I am taking Ibuprofen, prescribed by my dentist. What I am wondering is, whether this pain will subside or if the root canal failed since the nerves should be dead, right?
I would appreciate any input.

Answer 1

Usually after a root canal is preformed we prescribe something just a "we bit stronger" to go along with the Ibuprofen, and also an antibiotic. On occasion there is a little nerve left in a canal, or possibly an extra canal or an auxiliary canal that wasn't picked up on. Then again it may just be that this tooth had a worse abscess (more swelling and pus) and needs an antibiotic treatment as well. I don't see the need for an Endodontist now, the work is done. I wouldn't think that the root canal has failed yet. We only consider that after they have been completed and succeded and then flare up again. Now some patients experience more pain than others, it's usually due to how severe the abscess was when you came in to have it worked on. The more swelling and infection there is, the more pain. Sometimes they hurt a little just from the procedure, but not usually. In answer to your question, yes the nerves are dead, or gone I should say, since they have been removed. But, here is the tricky part, the tooth still has ligaments and tissue attached that still feel and transmit pain or sensation from stumuli. So if you have some swelling from the abscess that the body can't clean up, the tissue and ligaments will simulate pain as if it's your tooth. I would call the Dentist and ask about the pain medication and antibiotics, this was probably an oversight and it needs to be corrected. The antibiotics will make you feel like a new person by the second day, the pain medication will help you to get to the second day. You should be a pro at root canals if your on your third one, how did you forget pain and antibiotic medication? Oh well, it does happen every once in awhile. Don't hesitate to call your Dentist today, he will phone in a prescription for you to pick up. He will understand completely and probably be telling you how sorry he is for letting this slip his mind. We all make mistakes occasionally. Good luck, and I'm sure you will feel much better very soon.

Answer 2

MADISON,
IT'S NOT UNUSUAL TO FEEL PAIN AFTER HAVING A ROOT CANAL -- ALTHOUGH AS YOU WELL KNOW THIS SHOULDN'T BE SEVERE. CONTACT THE DENTIST WHO DID THE WORK TO SEE IF THERE IS ANYTHING HE CAN DO.
IF THIS WAS AN UPPER FIRST MOLAR, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT A 4rth CANAL WAS MISSED. I'D GO BACK AND TELL THE DENTIST OF THE PAIN.

Answer 3

i think consult a specialist now.

Answer 4

it could be what they call an dry socket,call the Dr