A root canal entails the removal of a decayed pulp whose blood vessels are damaged. While root canal procedures address the main problem, you still need to take care of your teeth after the procedure to manage the pain and prevent infection. Clifford C. Compton III DDS, PA is your go-to service should you need quality dentistry in Concord, NC. More than just the services we offer, we also provide professional aftercare advice
Here’s how you can care for your teeth after a root canal treatment.
Immediate Aftercare
During a root canal, a numbing cream will be applied on the area around the affected tooth. This may be enough to manage the pain, but there are cases where a local anesthetic is also administered. Hence, your mouth will probably be numb a few hours after the procedure is complete. During this time, avoid biting or chewing any food as you may bite down on the treated tooth causing damage. Avoid hot drinks as they may burn your mouth.
Your dentist in Concord, NC will prescribe pain relief medication that’s strong enough to suppress or mitigate the pain you’ll feel when the anesthesia eventually wears off.
A Few Days Following the Root Canal Aftercare
The infection risks are higher a few days following the root canal. As a precaution, take the prescribed medication, eat soft foods, and brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the area that’s been operated on. It might be challenging, but try to refrain from swishing your drinks in your mouth as it can undo the sutures.
Additionally, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where you had the root canal. Try not to lift anything too heavy so as not to strain yourself. In some cases, the root canal site may get infected, and you would need to visit emergency dentistry professionals immediately to remove the infected pulp.
Future Aftercare
Your dentist will typically schedule several follow up appointments in the future that you shouldn’t miss even if the area of the root canal is no longer painful. Note that the root canal filling is temporary since the tooth incurs damage during the procedure. In this regard, you may require dental crown installation. Your dentist might also suggest TMD/TMJ treatments should you require them.
Your family dentistry professional will assess how your tooth responds to the treatment and create an effective recovery plan that will help your tooth fully heal in a short period.
For effective root canal treatment and aftercare, contact Clifford C. Compton III DDS, PA today.
