Getting a root canal treatment involves your oral surgeon or dentist removing infected or dead tissue from the inside of your tooth. After the process, the endodontist in Gilbert seals the chamber with a biocompatible material that helps prevent future problems with the tooth.
Although having root canal treatment these days is not as different as getting dental fillings, one needs to take care of their mouth after the procedure. Some of the key things to know when you’re taking care of your tooth after a root canal are:
Your dentist will administer local anesthesia when getting a root canal. However, some people who have dental anxiety prefer to be mildly sedated. What is of importance is you don’t eat anything before the numbness from the local anesthesia has all worn off.
After the numbness is no longer, you can start taking soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies, eggs, soups, or bread. You should avoid hard and very hot foods for the first few days or as your dental professional has directed you.
When you’re after a root canal, you must avoid putting too much pressure on your tooth. Instead, you should chew on the opposite side until your permanent filling or crown is placed. Also, if you grind your teeth, you must wear a mouthguard. You should continue wearing the mouthguard even after the permanent filling or crown is placed. Mouthguards help reduce the impact of grinding, which protects dental restorations and teeth.
Your dentist in Gilbert, AZ, lets you know what medications you’ll need to take and how often following the root canal therapy. You’ll expect some tenderness after the procedure, with swelling usually going off within 24 hours. However, most people may return to their normal activities the next day.
You can manage most soreness after the root canal with over-the-counter medication. Still, your oral surgeon or dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help reduce the risk of greater pain, infection, or anti-inflammatory medicines based on your specific needs.
You will have to visit your dentist’s office near you for a follow-up appointment after your root canal procedure. This is to make sure that your tooth is healing and schedule a time when your final dental restorations will be placed.
Ensure you keep your follow-up appointment and get in touch with your dental professional sooner if your inflammation or pain worsens the next day. With care and rest, you’ll be healed from your root canal treatment in no time.
You must avoid hard foods when you have a temporary crown or filling. These foods can cause your temporary filling or crown to dislodge and expose the nerves. Soft foods after you’ve gotten your root canal procedure. Soft foods such as soup provide nourishment without aggravating the treated tooth. You should take lukewarm foods to prevent sensitivity.
Your dentist provides you with care instructions following the root canal procedure. The dentist at Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics might recommend different oral hygiene habits based on your restoration.
Cleanliness is always critical after a root canal procedure. You should use salt water and rinse several times daily for the first three days after the process. You should do this along with flossing and brushing daily.
The mouth rinse should have a half teaspoon of table salt. Mix the salt with lukewarm water and rinse for several seconds. Also, ensure you don’t rinse too vigorously as that might harm the tooth.
It’s important to continue practicing proper oral hygiene after a root canal treatment. You should floss daily, brush twice daily and use antiseptic mouthwash regularly to help maintain the health of your mouth.
Once your root canal is completed, you’ll have a follow-up visit with your dental professional to ensure that everything has healed as it is supposed to. After that, you should resume regular appointments for check-ups and cleanings.
Good oral hygiene helps you maintain healthy gums and teeth for years.