Last month, root canal treatment saved a patient’s tooth. She was fearful at first, but, like most patients, found that the procedure itself wasn’t half as horrible as its bad name. The recovery, though, was still something to be handled. As a Dentist in a dental office like Dentistry Dunnville for more than 15 years, I’ve accompanied hundreds of patients through successful recoveries from root canals. Let me impart some helpful advice to help you recover nicely following your procedure.

Understanding Your Root Canal Treatment

A root canal procedure removes infected pulp from inside your tooth. The treatment saves teeth that would otherwise have to be removed. Your body heals the area around the treated tooth during recovery. Most of my patients return to normal activities 24-48 hours after their root canal.

What to Expect Immediately After Treatment

After your root canal, you should feel mild discomfort as the local anesthetic begins to dissipate. This is normal. Your tooth may be sensitive for a day or two, particularly if there was pain or infection within the tooth prior to treatment. I assure my patients that these temporary discomforts are a sign that healing has begun.

Handling Discomfort During Root Canal Recovery

Effective Root Canal Pain Management Methods

Most pain after root canals can be alleviated by the use of over-the-counter drugs. Take the ibuprofen or acetaminophen as instructed to remove soreness and swelling. Adhere carefully to the dosages on the package. Phone our Dentistry Dunnville office in case you experience severe pain that is not relieved by such medications.

Application of Cold Compress

You can help reduce swelling by applying a cold compress to your cheek following a root canal. Use the compress 15 minutes at a time with 15 minutes off, repeat several times in a row a few times per day, at least in the first 24 hours. This simple remedy reduced inflammation and offered natural relief to my patients.

Dietary Tips for Recovery after Root Canal

Your diet plays a role during your root canal healing process. Initially, consume soft foods that require minimal chewing. Yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup are appropriate. Gradually transition back to your normal diet as healing progresses.

Foods to Enjoy:

• Scrambled eggs
• Pasta
• Soft-cooked vegetables
• Applesauce
• Oatmeal
• Foods to Avoid

When recovering from a treatment, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that might damage your treated tooth. Also, extremely hot or cold foods and liquids can be sensitive. Spicy foods can irritate the healing area as well, so soft foods are recommended until healing is complete.

Oral Hygiene During Root Canal Recovery

It is extremely crucial to have good oral hygiene after your canal treatment. Be gentle, however, with the healing area. Brush softly with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily, but be very careful around the healing tooth.

Saltwater Rinses for Root Canal Healing

Warm saltwater rinses will aid in the healing after your treatment. Saltwater is created by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in warm water, and you should rinse out your mouth a few times per day. It is a home remedy that reduces bacteria and soothes inflamed tissue. I recommend my patients to start rinses one day following their visit for best results.

When to Call Your Dentist with Root Canal Problems

While some discomfort is inevitable when recovering from a canal treatment, there are some signs that must be followed up on professionally. Contact Dentistry Dunnville immediately if you experience:

• Severe pain that lasts more than a few days
• Swelling that persists beyond 48 hours
• A bite that feels awkward and uncomfortable
• Loss of temporary crown or filling
• Allergic reaction to medication
• Long-term Care After Root Canal Treatment

Your tooth will require a permanent restoration, usually a crown, to help protect your tooth in the long term. This last procedure is required to keep your tooth healthy and functioning. Book this appointment as suggested by your dentist at Dentistry Dunnville.

Continuing Root Canal Care

When your treatment is finished, return for your regular dental checkups. These appointments enable us to keep an eye on your treated tooth and make sure it stays healthy. With proper care, a tooth that has been treated with root canals can be a lifetime tooth.

Root canal recovery need not be difficult. With the following professional advice, you can have a smooth recovery process with as little pain as possible. Keep in mind that every patient is different, so do not hesitate to call our Dentistry Dunnville team with questions along the way in your recovery process.

We strive to make your root canal as comfortable as possible. With good aftercare and regular dental check-ups, your treated tooth can last for many years to come. Contact us today.