Getting a root canal may seem a little intimidating. Most people experience moderate pain or discomfort following the procedure. If you are considering the treatment, it is common to have questions in terms of aftercare. Having proper knowledge about the aftercare process will help you recover quickly.
Recovery after the treatment is fairly rapid. It takes you only a couple of days to feel normal. However, if the pain persists and does not go away, visit dental care in Wilmington, DE to know the underlying cause.
Things to keep in mind after getting a root canal treatment
- Do not eat right away.
Do not eat immediately after your root canal procedure, and not until the numbness in your mouth is fully gone. When you start eating, be very careful and do not bite or chew directly from the affected tooth. Make sure that you do not consume anything that might irritate the wounded area, such as spicy food.
- Take prescribed medications.
After you are done with your root canal treatment, your dentist will recommend certain medications or painkillers. This is especially true if there is any underlying infection before the procedure. Take your doctor’s prescription seriously and finish the antibiotic course regardless of whether you feel better or not.
- Oral hygiene.
For your root canal treatment process to be successful, you must keep up with good oral hygiene practices. After you are done with the procedure, make sure to brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day and floss regularly. If you are a smoker, consider cutting back as it slows down the healing process.
- Gargle with warm water.
Gargling with warm water and salt will keep your mouth free from bacteria and bad breath. It will also help you prevent risks of infecting the gums surrounding the affected tooth.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
Avoid drinking and smoking for at least a few days as the pain and swelling subside. These chemicals can react with the prescribed medication or antibiotics and cause infection to your gum tissues and teeth.
- Use an ice pack.
Using an ice pack or eating ice creams following your root canal process can help keep the swelling down. You are likely to face sensitivity issues around the affected tooth after the treatment. Therefore, you should avoid eating from that part of your mouth. Use a cold compress for about 10 to 15 minutes following the treatment until your swelling has subsided.
