Does an infected root canal hurt

The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth. If decay, a crack, or leakage allows bacteria into it, inflammation can spread through the root canals into the surrounding jawbone and form an abscess.

The dentist tests the tooth, checks the gum and bite, and may take dental X-rays. Treatment removes inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, seals them with a filling material, and restores the tooth with a filling or crown when needed.

Keep the area clean, avoid chewing hard foods on the tooth, and follow the treatment instructions. Pain relief may help symptoms, but it cannot remove infected tissue or seal a root canal.

Arrange prompt care for persistent toothache, pain on biting, swelling, a gum pimple, fever, or a bad taste. Facial swelling, trouble swallowing, or breathing difficulty requires urgent help.

Ask whether the pain comes from the pulp or tissues around the root, what the X-ray shows, and whether the tooth can be restored. Ask what restoration will protect it after the canals are sealed.