What Is the Recovery Process Like After a Root Canal?

While many people get anxious at the thought of getting a root canal, the truth is that these treatments are completely painless while ending unbearable toothaches and saving teeth from extraction. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic treatment to ensure that you are comfortable through the procedure, and they may offer dental sedation services if you need a little help sitting calmly through the process. Here’s what you can expect while recovering from a root canal along with a few tips for staying comfortable during this period.

You Can Expect Some Discomfort

After receiving a root canal, you can expect some tenderness and soreness for a day or two afterward. This can include swelling, inflammation, and bruising in the gum tissue surrounding the treated tooth, but these symptoms are temporary and will recede over time. It is important to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and take any prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics. Over-the-counter pain medication may also help relieve these symptoms, and you may want to ask your dentist about supplements that can assist in the healing process.

Ways to Manage Your Discomfort at Home

The best way to minimize your discomfort after receiving a root canal is to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions precisely. Take your pain relievers and antibiotics as directed and avoid chewing or biting with the treated tooth until it has been fitted with a permanent dental crown. It’s also crucial to keep up with an excellent daily oral hygiene routine that includes thoroughly brushing and flossing. You can resume using mouthwash after four days have passed since the procedure.

How Much Pain Is Too Much?

After you receive a root canal, the discomfort, swelling, and bruising should diminish and eventually disappear over the next few days. However, if the discomfort and other symptoms are not going away or getting worse, it could be because of a lingering infection that requires immediate dental intervention. If this happens to you, contact your dentist for further instructions.

If your dentist recommends a root canal, you can rest assured that receiving the procedure is in your best interest. With proper care, you can ensure that your recovery process goes quickly and smoothly.

About the Author

Dr. Aaron Springhetti earned his dental degree at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has received an extensive amount of advanced training in oral surgery. He is currently pursuing accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. His office in Carmel, IN, offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as root canal treatments. To learn more about root canal aftercare, contact his office online or dial (317) 875-7645.