Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Congratulations, you have successfully completed your root canal procedure! Your tooth is now free of infection and pain.
In this final blog of our root canal series, we will discuss the aftercare and recovery process to ensure that your treated tooth heals properly and stays healthy.
Table of Contents
Pain Management
Typically, there is little to no discomfort after a root canal. On occasion, however, there may be some swelling due to stirring up the bacteria when cleaning out all the bad bacteria. If this happens, let your dentist know as soon as possible so that they can prescribe the recommended antibiotics. If you have any swelling, apply ice to the affected area for 30 minutes at a time. For pain management, over-the-counter ibuprofen or Tylenol usually does the trick.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is crucial for proper healing after a root canal. Make sure to brush twice a day and floss daily, being gentle around the treated tooth. You may also want to use an antiseptic mouthwash recommended by your dentist.
Avoid Chewing on Hard Foods
To prevent any damage to the filling or crown, avoid chewing on hard foods such as ice or hard candies. Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours after treatment. Try to avoid using the treated tooth to bite into hard or tough foods for a few days after the procedure.
Keep Your Scheduled Follow-Up Appointments
It is important to follow up with your dentist after a root canal procedure. If a temporary dental crown was placed at our initial appointment, it is important to follow up in short order to have a permanent crown placed. The permanent crown restores the full function of your tooth and is designed to last for many years with proper care.
Watch Out for Signs of Complications
While most root canal treatments are successful, it’s important to watch for signs that could indicate complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms after your root canal procedure, contact your dentist immediately:
- Persistent or severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Visible swelling inside or outside your mouth.
- An allergic reaction to medication, including rashes, hives, or itching.
- A return of the original symptoms that led to the root canal treatment.
- The temporary crown or filling comes out or is broken.
- A bite that feels uneven or discomfort when chewing or biting.
- Signs of infection, such as fever, drainage, or a bad taste in your mouth.
- Gums around the treated tooth become swollen or recede, exposing the tooth root.
Do not ignore these symptoms! Contact your dentist for a follow-up appointment if you experience any of these symptoms after your root canal treatment.
Why Choose Us for Your Root Canal Procedure
Our mission is to deliver exceptional dental care that is customized to meet the unique needs and desires of every patient. We prioritize the conservation of natural teeth and are committed to enhancing the patient experience.
Our team is dedicated to ongoing education, improvement, and empowering patients on their dental health journey. We are passionate about people, building relationships, and making a positive impact.
When you choose Power Road Dental Care, you can expect:
- The latest technology and techniques for effective root canal treatment.
- A caring and knowledgeable dental team dedicated to your comfort and satisfaction.
- Affordable options for payment, insurance coverage, and financing.
Trust Power Road Dental Care for all your dental needs.
Thank you for reading our Root Canal series. We hope we have provided valuable information about this common dental procedure and addressed any concerns or questions you may have had. If you ever need a root canal, remember that it is a safe and effective way to save your natural tooth and restore your oral health.
At Power Road Dental Care, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care for the whole family. If you are searching for a dentist who specializes in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, we can help. To book an appointment, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form.
If you are searching for ‘root canal therapy near me’, trust the experts at Power Road Dental Care.
Stay tuned for our next blog series about dental emergencies and how to deal with them. Until then, keep smiling and taking care of your oral health!