Root Canal Post-Treatment Tips
Research estimates that about 41,000 root canals are performed every day in the US. Although used as a last resort for when large cavities or injury damages the root, the therapy remains quite effective and cost-efficient when compared to other options. The procedure involves completely removing the interior pulp of the damaged tooth so as to save the natural from additional damage. At Bay Premier Dentistry, we provide gentle root canal treatments ant properly advise patients to ensure a smooth recovery. Although root canal recovery is typically uneventful for most patients, learning a few tricks and tips can help hasten the process while making it comfortable for you.
What to Expect
During the procedure you will experience no pain as your endodontist will administer anesthesia to numb the area, prior to beginning. On completing the treatment, the sensations experienced will vary across patients, although what most people feel is a mild discomfort that is associated to bruised tissues around the treated tooth. The discomfort or tenderness will fade in the next few days provided there was no complication with the procedure. Before being discharged you will be prescribed some medications to assist with any pain and help prevent infections. Your dentist will also hand you some aftercare instructions and give you the next date for a follow-up appointment.
Post-Treatment Recovery Tips
- Elevate Your Head and Avoid Eating Immediately After
Our Dentist in North Dale advices patients to try keep their heads elevated for the next few days after the therapy. This is usually to help with any pain or swelling experienced after treatment. You can use extra pillows to prop your head up while you sleep. It is also important that you don’t eat anything until all the numbness has gone away to help minimize chances of injuring yourself. Once the anesthesia has completely worn out, you can begin by taking soft and liquid foods and slowly re-adjust your diet as you heal.
- Keep the Mouth Clean
Dental hygiene remains important, even after a canal therapy since any infection threatens the success of the treatment. You will still have to brush and floss your teeth, but while being cautious of the treated area. Regularly gargling on warm salty will also help keep the mouth clean, especially around the treated area that could be difficult to brush and floss.
- Respond to Discomfort as Needed
Usually your dentist describes what you should expect during your recovery period. If anything seems off, it is important that you immediately contact your dentist for medical advice. If pain and swelling do not go away after 3 days or if they seem to be getting worse or not responding to medication, it could be a sign of a complication such as infection. By responding promptly, you will be able to get the needed help and prevent the situation from causing great damage.
- Go for all Follow-Up Appointments
Routine visits after a root canal are important as then a dentist can evaluate your healing progress. It is also during the subsequent visits that you will have a permanent crown fitted to offer additional strength to the treated tooth.
- Practice Moderation
You may not be able to indulge in hot beverages, smoking, drinking or eating hard foods after the procedure. Using straws and sucking on lollipops is also discourages as these behaviors may cause the gums to become swollen, which slows your recovery. To minimize risk, avoid any strenuous activity like impact sports or any kind of physical labor. While you may not be able to carry out your normal exercise, walking is considered safe until you are well recovered.
A root canal is a health investment that helps you maintain a healthy smile for a long time to come. Visit our clinic and meet our friendly and highly experienced staff that are committed to providing you with the best dental experience in 10330 N. Dale Mabry Hwy #150 Tampa, FL,. We provide other modern restorative and cosmetic dental procedures in addition to root canals.