Some pain can be expected after a root canal treatment.
Root canal treatment is performed in order to restore and repair a tooth that has been damaged by deep decay or infection. The procedure can go a long way in relieving painful symptoms and can also improve overall oral health. The treatment itself is performed under anaesthetic, so you won’t feel anything at the time of the procedure, but it is completely normal to experience some pain afterwards.
This pain is temporary and should resolve within a day or two — read on to find out what you can do to minimise any discomfort that you feel and enjoy a smooth recovery…
What is the recovery like?
Once your root canal treatment is complete and the effects of the anaesthesia have worn off, you will likely experience some pain and sensitivity at the site of surgery. Your dentist may recommend that you take some over-the-counter medications to alleviate any discomfort that you feel.
During the first few days following root canal treatment, it is advisable that you avoid eating foods that are particularly hard or chewy. These can exacerbate your discomfort and lead to more pain. Try to stick to a soft diet instead — some good options include blended soups (go for lukewarm rather than hot); smoothies; oatmeal; yoghurt; scrambled eggs; mashed vegetables like potatoes and pumpkin; and scrambled eggs. All of these foods are easy to eat and will minimise the amount of chewing that you have to do.
When should you see your dentist?
The pain associated with root canal therapy should resolve within a few days. If, however, you continue to struggle with pain and swelling beyond this point, it is important that you see your dentist. In some cases, it is necessary to have more than one root canal treatment performed to fully resolve the issue — recurring and persistent pain could be a sign that you need further treatment.
If over-the-counter medications do not help to resolve your discomfort, you can speak to your dentist about the option of prescription medication. Your dentist will let you know if this is appropriate for you.
How do you take care of your teeth after a root canal?
It is important that you practice proper oral hygiene after you have been through root canal treatment. By taking good care of your teeth, it is possible to maintain your oral health and prevent issues like decay and gum disease. Healthy habits will also ensure that your new crown lasts in the long-term.
In order to keep your teeth and gums in good condition, be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. It is also advisable that you eat a balanced diet that is low in added sugar, and that you see your dentist for regular check-ups and cleans.
How can we help?
At Murwillumbah Dental, we offer a range of general and restorative treatments, including root canal therapy. If you are suffering from pain as a result of deep decay, dental trauma or a cracked tooth, we encourage you to come in and see us as soon as possible.
When you come in for a root canal treatment, we will let you know what to expect from the procedure and provide you with advice regarding the recovery period. If you have any questions or concerns about the treatment, our team is available to help.
If you would like to find out more about root canal treatment and what it involves, please have a look here.
We also offer dental check-ups and cleans, and encourage our patients to come in twice a year so that we can identify and resolve any issues before they cause serious damage. Regular cleans can help to get rid of plaque and tartar and keep infections at bay.
To arrange an appointment to see us, please get in touch with us here or give us a call on (02) 6672 1068.
