Root Canal Aftercare

It seems a natural fact that folks get skittish about going to the dentist. If you imagine going in for a root canal you may dream of intense discomfort. In reality, the pain of leaving the problem alone is worse than the actual procedure. It is true, after a root canal it is completely normal to experience some pain. Don’t panic! Modern techniques and medicine have minimised the discomfort compared to past experiences. Root canal aftercare is a simple procedure that is planned in advance. Following the advice and treatment plan provided by your dentist will make root canal aftercare elementary.

Please bear in mind that this is general advice only and it does not take individual circumstances into consideration. For the best advice and information, make an appointment with your friendly family dentist Brisbane crew at Gympie Road Dental today.

Immediately after the procedure

The local anaesthetic will wear off. Your mouth is a delicate area, and you may experience an uncomfortable feeling and swelling. This is from the cleaning performed on your teeth and from keeping your mouth open for a long stretch of time. As part of your root canal aftercare, you will be prescribed some medication to ease the pain and swelling. Follow your dentist’s instructions even if the pain feels mild because your medication will help with the swelling too.

Oral hygiene

Aftercare after a root canal does not mean you have to stop taking care of your teeth. You will be able to continue brushing and flossing as you did before the root canal. Antiseptic mouthwash also helps keep your teeth healthy and clean. Be gentle when brushing around the area of the root canal. Cut back on the number of sugary drinks you consume. The same goes for sugary foods.

What to eat?

You will be able to enjoy the food that you like though you may need to wait a little while. Eat after the numbness has completely subsided. This avoids accidentally biting directly onto the tooth. Pass on foods that are either sticky, hard, or exceedingly hot or cold. Try soft foods such as:

• hummus
• scrambled eggs
• yoghurt/smoothies
• soups
• cooked vegetables
• quinoa

Follow up

Make sure to return to your dentist if instructed to do so. A follow-up appointment may be required to crown the tooth or check for complications. A properly cared for the revived tooth can last as long as your natural ones.

Symptoms to watch for

Aftercare after a root canal is straightforward and successful more than 90% of the time. Most people go back to their normal routine after a day or two. The pain should go away after two or three days. Just in case though, it does help to pay attention to the following:

• keep an eye out for visible swelling inside or outside the mouth
• a return of symptoms experienced prior to the root canal
• intense pain or pressure maintained over a few days
• any form of an allergic reaction
• the feeling that your bite is uneven

If any of the above occur, contact your dentist immediately.

Pay attention to your teeth

Root canal aftercare might seem complicated and frightening, but it doesn’t need to be. It is far better to be aware of your dental options and immediately fix any problems that occur than ignore the painful signs. Gympie Road Dental understands that many people worry about going to the dentist. We are here to help and ease you through the process. We are a family dental clinic that specialises in both preventative and cosmetic dentistry. Book an appointment today. Reach out to us by phone on 07 3915 8888 or via our online form if you have any questions.