Root Canal Post Treatment Care

Root Canal Post Treatment Care

Jan 01, 2022

A root canal is a procedure that restores and preserves a severely decayed or infected tooth. Although this is an endodontic procedure, you will be sent home the same day as the surgery. Our dentist in Langley will give you instructions to care for your treated tooth. Following these instructions will ensure no infections or inflammations during recovery.

What to Expect Immediately After a Root Canal

After the root canal procedure, expect your mouth to feel numb for a few hours from the anesthesia. Avoid eating or chewing anything as you may accidentally bite your lips, tongue, or inner part of the cheek. Wait for the numb feeling to wear off before eating. The anesthesia will also leave you feeling drowsy. Avoid driving yourself home as it may impair your judgment.

Expect some tenderness and mild discomfort after the treatment. The jaw might be sore due to remaining open longer than usual. The dentist will prescribe some pain relieving medicine until the area heals and the discomfort disappears.

Your teeth may be sensitive for a few days after surgery. Sensitivity is caused by tissue inflammation from the previous infection on the gums. The endodontist will prescribe toothpaste that eases the sensitivity. Avoid cold or hot drinks and foods since they increase sensitivity.

After a root canal procedure, a temporary filling or crown is usually placed on the tooth. it protects the tooth as the customized crown is being prepared. Special care is needed to protect the tooth before the permanent crown is fixed over your tooth. Avoid chewing or biting down on this treated tooth until the dentist fully restores it. Your tooth may be damaged since the tooth structure is delicate.

Oral Hygiene After a Root Canal Procedure

Optimal oral hygiene is required after root-canal treatment in Langley, BC. Cleaning the tooth and mouth prevents any infection from developing. Maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. do this by brushing your teeth twice every day and flossing at least once daily. However, be careful to prevent tooth irritation or displacing the temporary filling or crown.

Avoid putting excess pressure on the tooth when brushing. do not pull the floss towards the tooth. Let your dentist know if the floss does not slide easily between the treated tooth and adjacent ones. The filling is reshaped to enable the floss to pass through and clean the area. Brush gently using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Rinse your mouth after every meal. do this to maintain cleanliness and remove bacteria from the area. Use some warm saline water the first three days after the procedure. You can switch to an antibacterial mouth rinse after three days.

Watch What You Eat

Your diet after a root canal procedure must change. Ensure that what you eat protects the treated tooth from damage and provides adequate nourishment. Avoid sugary foods and drinks as they can lead to an infection.

Since your mouth and jaw will be sore for a few days, consume a liquid or soft food diet. Ensure that the foods or beverages are lukewarm to avoid tooth sensitivity. Avoid hard and crunchy foods as they may dislodge the temporary filling and expose the tooth nerves. Also, avoid food items that pressure the tooth, such as nuts, fries, and other tough foods.

When to Call the Endodontist

After any endodontic procedure, there is the risk of infections. For example, you may get mild to severe infections after a root canal procedure. The infections may be due to lack of oral hygiene, or not taking the prescribed antibiotics. Detecting and treating infections early ensures they do not spread or lead to further complications.

Immediately contact the dentist in Langley, BC, if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Severe pain that lasts more than a few days
  • Swelling after a day or two outside or inside your mouth
  • Uneven or uncomfortable bite
  • An allergic reaction to the medication
  • The temporary filling comes out
  • The symptoms you had before the treatment return
  • Persistent tiredness
  • Fever of over 99.5 degrees

Follow The Dentist’s Instructions

Your dentist gives you post-treatment instructions based on your bridge and personal issues. Follow these personalized instructions to the letter to avoid damage or infection on the treated tooth. Attend routine dental appointments at Novacare Dental after treatment. The dentist will monitor the tooth and help maintain proper oral hygiene.