If you’ve just had a root canal, you might be wondering what comes next. Understanding what to expect after the procedure can help you feel more prepared and comfortable during your recovery. Recovering from a root canal is usually straightforward. Most people find that the discomfort is manageable.
Feeling After the Procedure
After a root canal, it’s normal to experience some discomfort or soreness in the treated area. This is because the tissues around your tooth might be a little inflamed from the procedure. However, most people find that the discomfort is much less intense than the pain they had before the root canal. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage any soreness you might feel.
What to Do Immediately After
Here are a few things to keep in mind right after your root canal:
- Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions. Be sure to follow them carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: For the first few days, try to avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods on the side of your mouth where the root canal was done. This helps to prevent any damage to the temporary filling or the treated tooth.
- Keep the Area Clean: Continue to brush and floss your teeth as usual, but be gentle around the treated area. Keeping the area clean helps prevent infection and promotes healing.
Temporary vs. Permanent Filling
After a root canal, your dentist will place a temporary filling in the tooth to protect it until a permanent crown can be placed. The temporary filling is designed to stay in place while your tooth heals and the permanent crown is being made. Avoid chewing on the side with the temporary filling to prevent it from coming loose.
When to Expect a Follow-Up
You’ll need to return to your dentist for a follow-up appointment to have a permanent crown placed on the tooth. This is usually done a few weeks after the root canal. The crown helps to restore the tooth’s strength and function, making it more durable for everyday use. Your dentist will take impressions of your tooth to ensure that the crown fits perfectly.
Possible Side Effects
It’s normal to experience some mild side effects after a root canal. These may include:
- Mild Swelling: Some swelling around the treated area is common and should subside within a few days.
- Sensitivity: Your tooth might be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures for a short time after the procedure. This sensitivity usually decreases as the area heals.
If you experience severe pain, prolonged swelling, or any unusual symptoms, be sure to contact your dentist right away. These could be signs of an infection or other complications that need attention.
Caring for Your Tooth Long-Term
To ensure the long-term health of your tooth, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor the health of your root canal-treated tooth and the rest of your mouth.