Indeed, root canals save millions of teeth every year. Yet, many patients feel hesitant and concerned about the healing process. Thus, if you have a root canal scheduled or are thinking about getting one, knowing what happens after the procedure will help you get ready and heal properly.
Read this guide to learn more about what happens after root canal treatment.
Initial 24-48 Hours Post-Treatment
Your mouth will remain numb following your root canal because of the local anesthetic. Usually, this numbness lasts for two to four hours. To avoid inadvertently biting your face or burning your mouth, refrain from eating or consuming hot liquids during this period.
You can feel some pain or some discomfort once the numbness fades. This is entirely typical when your body starts to mend. For a few days, the treated tooth may feel a little different from your other teeth.
Over-the-counter painkillers may be recommended or prescribed by your dentist. Even if you’re not feeling really uncomfortable, take these drugs as prescribed. Remember, the healing process is more comfortable when you stay ahead of the pain.
Days 2-3: Swelling and Sensitivity
Any residual numbness will go away by the second or third day, although your mouth can still hurt, particularly if the tooth had a serious infection prior to root canal. A common side effect of root canal therapy is mild swelling in the surrounding gum tissue.
- Steer clear of spicy or hard foods and stick to soft, lukewarm meals.
- Rinse with warm salt water after gently brushing.
- Steer clear of physically demanding activities
- Continue taking any prescription antibiotics.
It is normal to experience some mild discomfort during this phase, but call your dentist immediately if you experience severe pain, observe worsening swelling, or get a fever.
Days 4-7: The Phase of Healing
Your discomfort ought to be subsiding by now. After a root canal, most patients return to work or school in one to two days, but a full week allows your body to fully recuperate.
You might observe:
- Little soreness under pressure
- Sensitivity of the gums surrounding the treated tooth
- A general restoration to regular diet and personal hygiene practices
Your dentist may arrange for the implantation of your dental crown around this time. A bespoke crown will strengthen a tooth that has a root canal, protect it from further harm, and finish your root canal rehabilitation.
Last Step: Crown Placement
A permanent dental crown completes the majority of root canal treatments, usually one to two weeks after the surgery. This last stage is crucial, particularly for rear molars or teeth that are utilized for chewing.
What to anticipate is as follows:
- A fitting in which your dentist makes impressions and forms the tooth
- While your personalized crown is being made, a temporary one is installed.
- A follow-up appointment for your permanent crown’s final cementing
Your tooth will feel and look just like your natural teeth once your crown is in place. To keep things in excellent condition, your dentist will remind you to follow your regular dental hygiene regimen and refrain from chewing on hard objects like ice or pens.
Handling Pain and Discomfort
Although recovering from a root canal is usually simple, some discomfort is to be expected. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen, two over-the-counter painkillers, typically offer adequate comfort. Follow the instructions on the package or the advice of your dentist when taking them.
For ten to fifteen minutes at a time, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek close to the treated region. This relieves pain and aids in edema reduction. Instead of putting ice straight on your skin, first cover it with a small cloth.
Even if you feel better, finish the entire course of antibiotics if your dentist prescribed them. This promotes healthy healing and guards against infection. Complications may arise from skipping doses or terminating early.
Maintaining Dental Hygiene While Recuperating
Proper healing depends on maintaining good dental hygiene, but you’ll need to be cautious near the treated region. When brushing your teeth, apply gentle, cautious brushstrokes close to the root canal site. Bacterial accumulation can impede recovery, so don’t neglect brushing and flossing.
Several times a day, especially after meals, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Swish a cup of warm water with half a teaspoon of salt for 30 seconds. This all-natural treatment lessens irritation and keeps the region clean.