If you’re feeling dental pain or discomfort that won’t go away or is extremely severe, then you might need root canal treatment. But today, root canal treatment is quick and efficient.
Why a Root Canal May Be Needed
A root canal may be needed because dental decay has occurred and affected the dental pulp inside your tooth. Made of connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and other types of tissues, the dental pulp can become inflamed and/or infected. If left untreated, the infection could spread and affect other parts of your mouth, your dental health and overall health, too.
But a root canal treatment will alleviate that risk, preventing infection or eliminating infection from inside your tooth.
What Exactly Is a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment involves the removal of the dental pulp that has been affected by decay. Once the pulp tissue is removed and sealed, the cavity is disinfected, any leftover debris is removed, and the tooth is sealed, and fitted with a crown or other restoration to repair the damage and restore the look of your natural tooth.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Our team will plan and consult with you on your aftercare instructions. Healing is typically quick, but you may find you have some amount of discomfort or swelling and/or experience sensitivity while chewing. But as long as you follow your simple aftercare instructions, you should start feeling recovered in a few days. Any post-treatment symptoms are typically mild and should only require over-the-counter analgesics to handle discomfort.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Avoid chewing on the site of the root canal
- Choose soft foods for a day or two following the procedure, such as smoothies or scrambled eggs or ice cream.
- You can eat 30 to 45 minutes after a root canal, but do wait until your anesthetic has worn off so you don’t accidentally bite your cheek or your tongue.
And, while you need time for full healing following a root canal treatment, you don’t need to let it change your usual routine, and you should be able to go back to work following treatment.
More Tips for Fast Healing
You’ll help the healing process go more smoothly if you follow some easy tips like these:
- Avoid hot foods/liquids until the anesthetic has completely worn off
- Take any pain medication your dentist prescribes or recommends
- Favor the side of your mouth that did not have the root canal treatment for a few days
- Avoid consuming anything that can cause inflammation to the area, like spicy foods or alcohol
- Don’t hesitate to call us if you have any concerns
Learn About Root Canals and What to Expect After the Treatment
If you’re suffering from tooth pain, or you’d like to schedule an exam or consultation, reach out to us today. We're here to help. And if a root canal is necessary, remember, the process is simple and efficient, and healing should be just as easy.