A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures aimed at saving a severely damaged or infected tooth. While the procedure itself alleviates pain and infection, knowing what to expect post-procedure will help ensure that recovery is without a hitch. Here’s an in-depth look at what you should expect post-root canal treatment.
Immediate Aftercare: The First Few Hours
Once your root canal is completed, your dentist will place a temporary filling or crown on the treated tooth. You might still feel numbness in the treated area due to the anesthesia, which usually wears off after a few hours. It’s best to avoid eating until the numbness fully subsides to prevent biting your cheek or tongue.
Pain and Sensitivity: What’s Normal?
Mild pain or soreness on the treated tooth and surrounding gum tissues is also expected. This happens due to inflammation resulting from the procedure. If the patient still feels the discomfort after several days or is quite severe, a call should be made to the dentist immediately.
Eating and Drinking After a Root Canal
For a smooth recovery, adhere to the following diet:
- Do not chew on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed.
- Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and smoothies.
- Avoid very hot or cold foods that might trigger sensitivity.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, which may hurt the temporary filling.
Swelling and Healing
Sometimes there might be slight swelling and tenderness in the region of the affected tooth. Application of a cold compress can reduce swelling and discomfort. High swelling and signs of infection such as fever or pus in the mouth should be reported to a dentist immediately.
Follow-Up Care: The Importance of a Permanent Crown
Most root canal treatments require the placement of a permanent crown to restore the tooth’s strength and function. A temporary filling is only a short-term solution. Be sure to follow up with your dentist for a permanent restoration within a few weeks to prevent fractures or reinfection.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene plays a crucial role in the success of a root canal treatment. Follow these essential tips:
- Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice in one day.
- Gently floss around the treated tooth to remove plaque accumulation.
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to hold the microbes at bay.
- Keep up regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor oral health.
Warning Signs to Watch For
While most root canal procedures heal without complications, be aware of these warning signs that require immediate dental attention:
- Severe or prolonged pain beyond a few days.
- Persistent swelling or tenderness in the gums.
- A loose or broken temporary filling or crown.
- A recurring pimple or abscess on the gums near the treated tooth.
Conclusion
A root canal recovery is a relatively simple process, and all that is needed is to follow your dentist’s instructions and maintain proper hygiene. It will take just a few days for the pain to subside completely. Proper care and attendance to subsequent appointments are the keys to long-term success of the treated tooth. If you start noticing any unusual symptoms, consult with your dentist for an immediate check-up and recommendation.
