4 Root Canal Recovery Tips From a General Dentist

If you are preparing for a root canal, you should understand how the process works. The procedure should take about an hour and will relieve your tooth pain and other issues. The recovery period is not normally difficult, though some patients can experience some challenges at first. Some helpful advice can get you through this period.

An overview of a root canal

Root canals are essential when a patient has an abscessed tooth or severe decay. In this procedure, the dentist will remove the pulp, the part of the tooth that holds blood vessels and nerves. This is where the infection is usually located. The dentist will clean out bacteria and other debris from the tooth. After sealing the tooth, the dentist will usually place a crown over it. This protects the tooth from further damage and prevents the infection from spreading.

Take some medication

After a root canal, the patient could feel some soreness and irritation at the site of the procedure. There may even be some swelling for a couple of days. The dentist can prescribe pain medication if the patient desires. However, over-the-counter products such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen should do an effective job of reducing the discomfort. Patients should follow the dosage directions. If symptoms do not improve after three or four days, the patient should call the dentist.

Apply an ice pack

Using a cold compression pack or ice can be an effective way of reducing any swelling. The patient should keep the pack on the affected area for about 20 minutes at a time for two or three days. Eating something cold such as ice cream or a popsicle can also soothe the mouth. Inform the dentist if the swelling does not go down after using these methods.

Watch what goes into the mouth

Patients should change their diet for at least a day or two after a root canal. Biting down onto hard objects or into chewy foods such as bread or meat can be painful after this procedure. Instead, the recovering person should use their jaw as little as possible during this period. Soft foods and liquid should ease any pain.

Avoid strenuous activity

After getting a root canal, people typically are back to regular schedules in as little as 24 hours. However, patients should not rush back into activities. A day or two of rest and relaxation will go a long way in helping the person to recover. People should stay off their feet immediately after the procedure into the following day.

Have a successful treatment

Your dentist will have the knowledge and training that you can feel good about to do your root canal procedure. You play a big role in your recovery. Listen to your dentist and follow the directions you receive at the office. If you do these things, you should overcome any pain and discomfort in a few days. When you know it is time to get this treatment, call the dentist’s office and schedule an appointment to come in.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.