If you’ve never had a root canal before, it can be easy to get intimidated by the thought of the procedure. However, it’s actually quite painless! You’ll most likely have more difficulty with the aftercare than with the procedure itself if you don’t know what to do. That’s where this handy guide comes in! Read on if you’d like a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the road to recovery after your root canal.
Immediate Care
Here are things to keep in mind for the first hours after your procedure:
- Anesthesia Effects: Following the root canal procedure, you may experience some numbness in the treated area due to the anesthesia. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the sensation returns to prevent accidental injury.
- Temporary Filling: In most cases, a temporary filling or crown is often placed over the treated tooth to protect it until a permanent restoration can be placed. Avoid chewing sticky or hard foods on the treated tooth to prevent dislodging the temporary filling.
Managing Discomfort or Pain
In the days after your root canal, you may still feel some discomfort in the treated area. Here’s how to deal with it:
- Medication: Your dentist may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage your discomfort. Make sure you take these as directed and avoid aspirin as it may increase bleeding.
- Ice Packs: Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the treated tooth can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Use the ice pack for 10 – 15 minutes at a time with 20 minute intervals in between.
Managing Your Diet
You’ll need to shift your diet a bit after your procedure to help you recover faster. Here are some tips:
- Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet for the first few days after your procedure. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, and smoothies are gentle and nutritious!
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Try to steer clear of very hot or cold foods and drinks, as they can trigger sensitivity and discomfort in the treated tooth.
Aftercare and Appointments
After you’ve managed these factors, there are other aspects of your recovery you’ll need to attend to, such as:
- Oral Hygiene: Continue your oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing regularly, but be very gentle around the treatment area. If you use a mouth rinse, don’t swish vigorously.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to have a permanent filling or crown placed on the treated tooth. While there, your dentist can also check for complications and see if the procedure was fully successful.
By following these guidelines, you can promote healing and ensure a successful recovery after your root canal procedure. Remember to communicate any concerns or questions to your dentist! They’re there to support you throughout the process and ensure that your smile stays happy and healthy.
About the Practice
At Shinkawa Dental, our team offers exceptional care for the entire family. Our expert dental team is highly skilled and patient focused. They also use the latest dental technology and modern techniques for root canal treatments, offering a pain-free and comfortable experience. Call (559) 226-5656 to schedule a root canal consultation with us or visit the website to explore other services we provide.