Root canal therapy is an endodontic procedure used when the inner pulp of a tooth is infected. During the procedure, your dentist accesses the inner chambers of the tooth through the crown, removes the infected pulp, fills the canals with a biocompatible material, and then seals the tooth. In this article, we talk about how to care for your tooth after a root canal and best tips for a smooth recovery.
How to Care for Your Tooth After a Root Canal
Root canal therapy can be a strenuous procedure for your tooth and gums and requires proper care for swift and complication-free recovery. Typically, root canal recovery takes about 5 days, but it can take up to a week in more complicated cases. Let us look at the main rules that will help your root canal recovery.
The First Hours After the Procedure
We recommend abstaining from eating until the anesthetic wears off. When a part of your mouth is numb, you can accidentally bite too hard on the soft tissue in the mouth or on the newly treated tooth. Typically, the anesthetic wears off within 3 hours, but it might take longer, depending on the type of medication used and the location of the procedure.
If you notice swelling, apply a cold compress to the outer side of your cheek. It is recommended to have 15-minute compress applications with at least 30-minute breaks between them.
Rest after the procedure, but keep your head elevated. We recommend lying in a half-sitting position and avoiding any strenuous activities that can increase blood flow to the procedure area.
First Days After the Procedure
There are several main rules we recommend following in the first 3 to 4 days after the root canal treatment:
- It is essential to be gentle with the treated tooth and avoid chewing on it for a couple of days after the procedure.
- Opt for liquid and soft foods, such as smoothies, soups, and pureed vegetables, and chew your food on the opposite side of your mouth from the procedure side.
- Avoid cold and hot foods and drinks, as the tooth and the gum tissue around it can be sensitive.
- Another essential point is to maintain impeccable oral hygiene to avoid infections at the procedure site. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly twice a day, but be gentle when cleaning around the treated tooth. Do not apply excessive pressure to the tooth, and avoid brushing or flossing with too much force, as this can damage the gum tissue around it.
- Rinse your mouth with a lukewarm saltwater solution after meals to help prevent bacterial growth.
- Keep applying cold compresses several times a day if swelling persists.
Manage pain with over-the-counter painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, but remember to stay within the recommended dose and intake duration. - Continue keeping your head elevated at all times and use additional pillows at night.
- Avoid sports and any strenuous activities for a week after the procedure.
- Abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol for the duration of your recovery, as both these substances significantly slow down healing.
If swelling and pain do not subside within the first 2 to 3 days after the procedure or become more severe, contact your dentist immediately, as these symptoms may indicate reinfection or a failed procedure.
Sign up for a Stress-free Root Canal Procedure at Tropic Dental Care
Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist at Tropic Dental Care for a reliable, stress-free root canal procedure. In our office, we use modern methods and high-quality dental materials to offer reliable results to our clients. We are looking forward to your visit.
