The thought of undergoing a root canal might feel a bit overwhelming, especially when it is your first time. A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside your tooth, allowing you to keep your natural tooth intact. Naturally, questions arise about what to expect during recovery. Wondering about the aftereffects is totally normal. In this blog, we’ll give you a clear, simple overview of what to expect after a root canal and offer helpful tips to make the recovery process as comfortable as possible.

Post-Treatment Expectations

After the procedure, you will most probably feel some discomfort and tenderness in the tooth. The pain, however, should be bearable and will usually go away within a few days. Below are the symptoms that you may experience:

• Mild Swelling and Sensitivity: There may be a slight swelling and sensitivity in the treated area after root canals in Cypress, TX. This condition is still within the safe zone and may be present for a couple of days.
• Discomfort: Pain in the tooth and gum areas may occur; this is expected. The discomfort will gradually lessen. 
• Numbness: After the procedure, the anesthesia will wear off, and you may experience some numbness in your mouth. It’s essential to be careful when eating or drinking to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or lip.

Caring for Your Treated Tooth

After the treatment, your dentist will give you instructions on how to take care of yourself. These instructions are crucial for minimizing discomfort and avoiding complications. Below is a brief explanation of how post-root canal care works:

• Avoid Hot and Cold Foods: In the first few days, avoid consuming foods or beverages that are extremely hot or cold. The treated tooth may be very sensitive to temperature changes.
• Eat Soft Foods: Consume only soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, soup, or yogurt, for several days after the root canal treatment. This will prevent excessive pressure on the treated tooth.
• Brush and Floss Gently: Make sure that you brush and floss your teeth regularly, but be gentle with the treated area. Do not irritate the tooth or gums by brushing them vigorously.
• Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods: Avoid chewing hard foods such as nuts or ice for at least a week. This will prevent putting unnecessary strain on the tooth.
• Take Pain Relievers as Directed: If you experience pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help relieve it. Follow your dentist’s instructions ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌strictly.

Follow-Up Appointment

Patients need to schedule a follow-up appointment after receiving root canals in Cypress, TX. During this appointment, your dentist will evaluate the healing of your tooth and decide whether a permanent crown should be placed on the treated tooth. The protective function of crowns safeguards the tooth while restoring its strength to perform like a natural, healthy tooth.

If you have ongoing pain or other worrisome symptoms, you should contact your dentist immediately. The tooth’s failure to heal properly or need for additional treatment becomes apparent through this symptom.

Conclusion: A Smooth Recovery with Proper Care

You will need to follow these aftercare instructions to achieve a successful recovery after your root canal treatment. Any discomfort or swelling will go away with proper care. Our team remains available to assist with any issues you encounter.

At Fair Lakes Family Dentistry, Cypress, our team provides effective dental care to help you achieve complete comfort throughout your recovery.

You can reach out to us through our contact information when you need assistance or want to arrange a follow-up appointment.

FAQs

How long does a person usually feel soreness after having a root canal?

Most people will have some soreness (not severe) for a few days after having the root canal done. The soreness should gradually decrease after two to three days.

How soon can I return to eating regular food after a root canal?

You should start by mainly eating soft foods for the first few days after the procedure to avoid placing additional pressure on the treated tooth.

Why is it necessary to have a crown placed over the tooth after having a root canal?

The crown helps to protect and restore the function of the treated tooth. It also strengthens the tooth and helps prevent it from breaking or being further damaged.

Is it normal to be numb after a root canal?

Yes, the patient will generally feel numb because of the anaesthesia used during the treatment. The numbness should wear off within several hours after the procedure.

How can I relieve the discomfort in the tooth after my root canal?

Most people find that taking ibuprofen (or similar medications) will relieve their discomfort. Patients must follow their dentist’s instructions for taking the medicines.

How long does it take for a tooth to heal after a root canal?

It may take several weeks for the tooth to completely heal. However, most people find that their discomfort goes away within a few days.