What to Expect After a Root Canal

The global root canal market could reach a value of $1,410.46 million by 2030. More patients are scheduling root canal surgery to invest in their oral health. A root canal can help remove the pulp from a tooth that sustained an injury or became infected.

If you’re about to undergo your root canal procedure, read on to learn what to do after a root canal. Knowing what to do after the procedure will ensure you take care of your oral health. Read on to learn more.

Driving Home

Don’t worry; you won’t have to call for someone to drive you home following your root canal procedure, so long as deep sedation isn’t required. If you do request sedation, prepare to have someone drive you home.

Brushing and Flossing

Take care of your oral health following your procedure. Resume your normal oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day. Floss once a day as well.

Wait at least 30 minutes after the procedure before brushing your teeth. This period gives the temporary filling time to harden before you brush.

Numbness

You might experience a little sensitivity or even a dull ache after your procedure. Don’t worry; it’s only temporary. You can use over-the-counter analgesics (like Ibuprofen or aspirin) to ease any discomfort you experience.

The local anesthetic you receive during the procedure will numb the area. It might take a few hours before the anesthetic wears off. Avoid drinking hot liquids or chewing during this time.

Eating and Drinking

You can eat anything outside of hard or sticky foods following the procedure. Don’t bite or chew directly on the treated tooth.

Stick to soft foods for a while, such as:

• Soft fruit
• Yogurt and milkshakes
• Oatmeal
• Sushi
• Pasta
• Pancakes
• Hummus
• Mashed potatoes

Make sure your mouth is no longer numb before eating.

Working

If your job doesn’t require a lot of speaking, you can return to work following your appointment. However, the anesthetic might impact your ability to smile and speak.

Avoid exercising too soon, though. You could increase aching or slow the healing process down.

Rest

Give yourself the chance to rest after your root canal procedure. Resting will speed up the recovery process. Give yourself a few days off and try to remain gentle with yourself.

Get plenty of sleep and try to stay off your feet. Make sure to keep up with your medication during this resting period.

Consult your dentist for a full list of instructions you should follow. You can visit this Comprehensive dental clinic for families for your procedure.

If you continue experiencing pain or discomfort, consider pressing an ice pack against your cheek to bring down the swelling.

Know What to Expect After a Root Canal

Knowing what to expect after a root canal can ensure you prioritize the healing process. Use these tips to take care of your oral health after the surgery. Contact your dentist if you experience any complications or prolonged pain.

Prepare for your root canal procedure today.

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