Finding out that you need a root canal can be nerve-racking. Caring for the treated tooth can be even more stressful. Knowing what to do after the treatment can help you prepare well for it. Here are some tips for a smooth and quick recovery after your root canal.
The patient must wait to eat as soon as the procedure is over. The anesthesia will still be in effect for hours after the procedure. Eating and drinking will be okay when the numbness fades. The patient should not chew on the treated tooth until the tenderness diminishes.
Place a cold compress on the side of the treated tooth after the root canal. Research shows that cold therapy reduces swelling and pain. Wrap the ice pack in a towel and place it on the cheek for about 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat this treatment many times a day.
The dentist will prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers after the root canal. Follow the strict directions when taking them. These medications will reduce the swelling and pain. They will also prevent the onset of infection.
Healing is important after every surgery. A root canal is an invasive procedure. Take a day or two of complete rest. Doing so will allow the body to pour resources into healing the mouth well.
A warm salt solution can help keep the mouth bacteria- and debris-free. It can also keep the gums healthy as the tooth heals after the root canal. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Remember to be gentle when gargling.
Studies reveal that tobacco and alcoholic drinks impair proper blood oxygenation and circulation. These substances can prevent the root canal-treated tooth from healing right away. They can even increase one’s risk of infection. It is ideal to quit consuming these products if the patient will undergo any oral surgery.
Eat soft foods for the first three days after the root canal. These foods will prevent the patient from damaging or putting pressure on the treated tooth. It is ideal to stock up on these foods before the procedure. Soups, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes are common examples of soft foods.
Some people grind their teeth at night or during stressful times. This habit can harm the root canal-treated tooth. The dentist can provide a custom-fit nightguard. Wearing this dental device at night can protect the said tooth from damage.
It is important to see the dentist at the recommended times after the root canal. The visits will enable the dentist to keep an eye on the tooth’s healing. These checkups also ensure that the tooth receives proper treatment. The dentist will be able to address any problem that may arise during recovery.
Every general dentist aims to keep the tooth intact. A root canal is one way to achieve this goal. It may be invasive, but it relieves pain and keeps the tooth intact. Working with your provider can help you recover well and enjoy your smile for years.
Request an appointment here: https://www.brdental.com or call Bergen-Rockland Dental Associates, LLC at (201) 620-9576 for an appointment in our Northvale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Northvale, NJ.
Dentists recommend root canal treatment for damaged, diseased, or infected teeth. The treatment aims to eliminate bacteria within the tooth's pulp and save a patient's natural teeth. After a tooth matures, it no longer requires the pulp for nourishment. The dentist removes the infected pulp, disinfects the inside, and seals it to prevent reinfection.Decay and…
Cracked teeth are not enjoyable to deal with, and oftentimes, they require a root canal from a general dentist. Thankfully, dental technology has improved over the years, and having a root canal done is not so bad after all. The procedure itself is pretty straightforward and is quite beneficial for a cracked tooth. Continue reading…
A root canal procedure is a type of dental treatment in which they remove the infected or decayed pulp in the root of a tooth to prevent the spread of an infection and preserve the long-term health of the tooth. It is helpful to understand the process dentists use during a root canal procedure to…
A root canal is a restorative procedure that can save a tooth from severe infection. If you are experiencing extreme pain in your mouth, you may need this treatment. This is no process to dread despite what you have heard about it. Your dentist will take great care to make you feel at ease. Do…
If you want to know the general dentistry services you can get from a dentist…
With the latest treatments in cosmetic dentistry, it is easy to have a white, bright…
A smile makeover might be exactly what you need if you would like to improve…
When new denture wearers are fully prepared to take care of their dentures, they are…
Patients considering dental crowns may have concerns regarding the recovery period following the procedure.
A general dentist can help you to get past any toothache.
