How Much Recovery Time Do I Need After a Root Canal?

Getting a root canal sounds intimidating, but it’s actually a pretty common way to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed. If you’ve just had one, or you’re about to, you’re probably wondering how long it’ll take to bounce back. The short answer: most people recover quickly, and knowing what to expect makes the whole process a lot easier.

What Happens Right After the Procedure

Here’s some good news: root canals usually aren’t as painful as people fear. Dentists use local anesthesia and modern techniques, so you probably won’t feel much while they’re operating on your tooth. Once the numbness fades, though, you’ll likely notice some soreness or tenderness in your jaw or around the treated tooth. That’s totally normal and reduces within a few days.

For the first day after your root canal, try to:

• Chew on the other side of your mouth.
• Take ibuprofen or another over-the-counter pain reliever if needed.
• Use a cold compress if you notice any swelling.

Your Recovery Timeline

Most people feel better after a root canal. Here’s what the next few days usually look like:

First 2–3 Days:

Expect some mild to moderate discomfort—think of it as a dull ache or tenderness. You might see a little swelling or bruising near the tooth, but that should settle down after a few days. Stick with your dentist’s instructions for pain relief. If over-the-counter meds aren’t working for you, give your dentist a call.

By the End of the First Week:

Most of the pain and swelling should be gone, and you’ll probably be back to your usual routine. If you’re still a little sore, avoid eating anything too hard or sticky using the treated tooth.

After 2 Weeks:

The surgery site should feel almost normal. You might still notice some sensitivity when you bite down, but that’s usually nothing to worry about. If you got a temporary filling, your dentist probably has you scheduled for a final appointment to place a permanent crown.

Long-Term Healing and Taking Care of Your Tooth

Full recovery can take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how tricky the procedure was and how fast your body heals. Most people feel fine after about a week or two. The best thing you can do is stick to your dentist’s aftercare advice and keep your mouth clean.

Here’s how to help things along:

• Brush and floss gently around the area—don’t go overboard, but don’t skip your routine, either.
• Eat soft foods, especially during the first few days.
• Skip smoking if you can, since it slows down healing.

Show up for your follow-up appointments—they’re important for making sure everything’s healing the way it should and for getting that final crown in place.

When to Call Your Dentist

While root canals are safe and usually go smoothly, problems can occur without warning. If you have severe pain that lasts more than a few days, worsening swelling, or a fever, reach out to our dentist. Those can be signs that something’s not right with your dental health, and it’s better to get it checked out at our Winchester dental clinic sooner rather than later.

FAQs

How long does it take for the pain to go away after a root canal?
Pain and discomfort usually subside within a few days. However, mild sensitivity can persist for up to 2 weeks. If the pain is severe or persistent, consult your dentist.

Can I go back to work after a root canal?
Yes, most people can return to work the day after the procedure, although you may want to take it easy for the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous activities.

Is it normal to feel sensitivity after a root canal?
Some sensitivity, especially to hot and cold temperatures, is normal after a root canal. This should improve within a week or two.

Can I eat normally after a root canal?
After the anesthesia wears off, you can eat soft foods. Do not chew hard foods using the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a permanent filling or crown.