dentist with post root canal patient

No one really loves the thought of undergoing root canal treatment. However, contrary to popular assumption, recovery following the procedure is straightforward if you follow a few simple guidelines. This procedure eliminates the source of inflammation and infection by removing the tissues, nerves, and blood vessels inside the tooth. By knowing what to expect during the healing period, you can enjoy a comfortable experience from beginning to end. Today, our doctors at Walnut Pond Dental discuss a few tips and tricks for a successful recovery following your root canal in Clinton, NJ.

Take All Medications as Directed

Following your root canal treatment, your doctor will give you prescription medications. Generally, these will include antibiotics and pain tablets. To eradicate any residual dental infection and bacteria, it is important that you take the antibiotics until otherwise directed by your doctor. Slight tenderness and discomfort is normal following root canal therapy. We recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to help ease inflammation. Prescription medications can be taken on an as-needed basis.

Practice Proper Oral Hygiene

It may be tempting to avoid brushing or flossing the area for the first couple of days. However, proper oral hygiene is vital to your recovery. While you may need to be gentler with your toothbrush for a day or two, it is important that you continue to brush as floss as normally as possible. Keeping the area free from plaque, biofilm, and bacteria will ensure a quick and speedy recovery.

Chew on the Opposite Side of Your Mouth

Overall, your pain level following your root canal in Clinton, NJ should pale in comparison to what you experienced before, providing your infected tooth was causing discomfort. This is because during the procedure, the source of pain and inflammation is directly removed. However, it is not uncommon for the gum tissue around the tooth to feel tender or sore for a few days following your root canal treatment. Therefore, it will be helpful to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid placing excessive pressure on the area. You can resume normal eating habits once you feel comfortable.

Avoid Chewy, Hard, and Crunchy Foods

While the local anesthesia is wearing off, your mouth will still be numb. It is important to eat only soft foods during this time, as you do not want to accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. In fact, avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods is an excellent idea for the first week or two. You can gradually reintroduce more solid foods once your comfort level has returned to normal.

Attend Your Follow-Up Visits

After your root canal in Clinton, NJ, your doctor will schedule you for checkup visits to monitor your progress. It is important that you attend these appointments, as your dentist will make sure you are healing well and that there are no concerning issues going on.

Contact Our Clinton, NJ Dental Practice for More Information

Recovery following your root canal in Clinton, NJ can be stress-free and comfortable by following a few post-treatment guidelines set forth by your dentist. To learn more about root canal therapy, or to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call our office at 908-200-7007. Our skilled team of professionals is standing by to answer any questions you may have about your treatment.