There are all kinds of dental procedures that make patients anxious, though perhaps none more so than root canals. For some reason, this procedure has a nasty reputation, one that really isn’t earned. The use of powerful anesthetics makes root canal treatment completely painless, and it’s often the least invasive treatment available to patients looking to deal with a serious root pulp infection
However, it isn’t just the treatment itself that patients are concerned about; the matter of aftercare also tends to cause some anxiety. Here’s what you should expect from that process, what you can do to be prepared, and why it shouldn’t scare you.
What Will I Feel After a Root Canal?
After a root canal, you can expect some discomfort and mild pain once the anesthesia wears off. This is normal and typically subsides within a few days. Swelling and tenderness around the affected area are also common. To ease this discomfort, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
How to Handle Aftercare
In the first few days after the procedure, it’s advisable to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the root canal was performed. This helps prevent further irritation or damage. Eating soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies can minimize discomfort while ensuring you get the necessary nutrients.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during the recovery period. Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly, but be gentle around the treated area to avoid irritation. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and reduce inflammation.
Follow any specific instructions provided by your dentist, including attending follow-up appointments. These check-ups are essential to ensure the treated tooth is healing properly and to address any complications early.
What If My Problems Get Worse?
In some rare circumstances, patients may notice that their discomfort gets worse instead of better. This This may mean that the infection that caused your root canal wasn’t removed entirely, or that a new one has begun. If you experience severe pain, swelling that worsens, or signs of infection such as fever or pus, contact your dentist immediately. These symptoms may indicate complications that need prompt attention.
Overall, you expect some discomfort and tenderness after a root canal, but these symptoms should diminish within a few days. Keep this information in mind and the aftercare process should be a breeze!
About Our Practice
Welcome to Mauck & Ricci, DDS! The key to our practice is that we help patients not only feel their best through incredible dentistry, but to ensure that the services that we provide are as comfortable as they can possibly be. Whether you’re seeing us for cosmetic dental care, regular checkups, or root canals, we will do everything that we can to make the services you receive from us quick and efficient.
If you have any questions about root canals, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (303) 745-1400.