Aftercare for Root Canals

Aftercare for Root Canals from Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte in Port Charlotte, FLCurious about root canals? Read on to learn more about this procedure as well as some aftercare tips. This procedure is one that is relatively in-depth as the tooth is opened up all the way down to the roots. There are a few things one can do afterward to ensure that the tooth heals properly.

Root canals: How to care for teeth after the procedure

Outlined below are some of the tips that dentists recommend for those who have recently undergone a root canal. Reviewing this information can help ensure that recovery is as smooth as possible.

Adjust your diet

Immediately after a root canal, it is highly advised to adjust your diet. While the entire oral cavity will not be affected or in pain, the area where the procedure was done will likely be sensitive and tender, making things like eating difficult and sometimes, painful.

It is recommended to adjust to a liquid or soft-food diet immediately after a root canal. In the event that multiple root canals are performed, it may be necessary to carry this diet on for a couple of days while the mouth heals.

Maintain good oral hygiene

One mistake that many people make after a root canal is avoiding oral hygiene out of fear that it will be painful. While it may not be the most comfortable experience, it is crucial to still perform good oral hygiene routines. Brushing around the area where the root canal was performed is necessary, but it is good to be extra careful and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently rinsing with salt water can also be helpful to keep bacteria at bay.

Be careful

Simply put, it is necessary to be extra careful with the mouth and face after a root canal. It is important to avoid physical activity on the first day and any physical activity that could hurt the mouth for a few days afterward.

Additionally, avoiding bad habits such as nail biting or using the teeth to open things will be helpful as the tooth and mouth heal.

Ice packs and over-the-counter medications

After a root canal is performed, it is highly recommended to use a cold or ice pack around the affected area. The cheek, oral cavity, and gums are likely to be sore, tender, and even inflamed for a day or so after the procedure. Be careful not to overdo the cold, but use it in increments instead.

Another recommendation is to utilize over-the-counter medications to help with discomfort and inflammation. In severe root canal cases, a prescription pain reliever may be prescribed.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Root Canals in Port Charlotte, FL

The bottom line

Not all general dentists can perform root canals as they are a more in-depth procedure than the average cleaning or dental filling. Those who have unanswered questions or concerns about root canal aftercare tips should consult directly with a dentist or oral surgeon. Contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Request an appointment or call Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte at 941-676-9225 for an appointment in our Port Charlotte office.

Related Posts

How A General Dentistry Uses Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are used in general dentistry to protect teeth from developing cavities. They form a defensive layer on top of molars and premolars to prevent food and germs at bay. Here is additional information on how the dental industry utilizes sealants to protect patients' teeth.Sealants are slender plastic coatings that dentists paint onto the…

General Dentistry: When To Treat A Fractured Tooth

A tooth fracture can occur from many causes, such as accidents, grinding teeth, eating hard foods, and aging. Fractured teeth do not heal themselves, so visiting your general dentistry professional in the event of a cracked, broken, or fractured tooth is always advisable.Cracks in your teeth can manifest in different ways. Some are painful and…

General Dentistry: How To Improve Tooth Function

If you have cracked, chipped, worn, or otherwise damaged teeth, chances are they are not beyond hope. Several general dentistry procedures exist to improve the appearance of your smile and strengthen your teeth and improve their function. Your dentist can explore all the options available to you and how each can benefit your smile.In the…