The Root canal recovery phase is very important for the success of the treatment. Root canal treatments are done to remove any deep infection or swelling you might be having. These infections start as small cavities and when left unattended, might affect the whole tooth. Root canal treatments clears out the infection by clearing out the affected parts of the tooth and pulp. It is then filled with cement to prevent any re-infections. The thing you need to understand here is that yes it is a comparatively invasive procedure and yes it is to treat pain, meaning the post care is very important. Not only to reduce pain and discomfort but also for a proper healing so that you do not have any further issue with that tooth. Read along to know these easy root canal recovery tips that will help you heal in a quick and effective way.
1. Immediate post-care for the next few hours
Root canal treatment is ended or ‘closed’ by the placement of a cement. This cement needs to ‘set’ in the mouth. Hence the dentist will ask you not to take any food or water for 30 – 40 minutes following the treatment. Because water can wet the cement and lead to dislodgement.
Also note that in some cases, anaesthesia will be given to finish the root canal treatment. It is advised to wait till the effects of anaesthesia wear off before you eat anything. Which will take around an hour or so. This is to prevent accidental biting of the lip or tongue as they may seem numb.
2. Avoid hard and sticky foods
Following the root canal procedure, it is advised not to eat anything super hard or sticky for a couple of days. This is because the root canal treated tooth will be a tad bit weaker when compared to the other natural, strong teeth. There are chances that heavy forces might chip or break the tooth.
Also, sticky foods like chewing gum or sticky dough breads should be avoided because they might stick to the cement and cause cement dislodgement. We need the cement to sit right in its place to avoid further infections.
3. Maintain a good oral hygiene
You have gotten a root canal treatment done. It does not mean that you should avoid brushing or flossing that area. Hygiene still needs to be maintained to avoid chances of re-infection. Understand that the surrounding teeth are still susceptible to infection.
Do note not to brush hard with too much force. When you floss, make sure that the floss doesn’t accidentally dislodge any cement. Also make sure that there is no residual food accumulation. This can also be ensured by
4. Salt water rinses
5. Apply a cold compress
6. Take your medication on time
7. Talk to your dentist about a crown
Following root canal procedure, it is very important to get a crown for the same tooth. Because with root canal treatment, we are removing the pulp and infected areas of the tooth, which will make the tooth weak. It will be susceptible to breakage under force. You cannot be on a soft diet forever. Hence to gain back full functionality of that tooth, talk to your dentist about getting a crown. They will guide you through the different types of crowns. This is also to prevent the cement from dislodging.
Healing and going back to normal after getting a root canal treatment might sound hard and confusing. But worry not, our expert dentists at Sri Satya Dental Hospital are always available for you even after your treatment. So call us now for an appointment.
