How to Recover From a Root Canal Procedure

About 15 million patients need dental root canal treatment every year. If you’re scheduling an upcoming root canal procedure, it helps to have a plan. Neglecting to consider the recovery process could lead to complications. 

Instead, use these five tips to recover from your upcoming root canal treatment. With these recovery tips, you can ensure the best possible outcome after your procedure.

Prepare for your root canal with these recovery tips today.

Pay Attention

Pay attention to how you feel after your root canal treatment.

Any pain or swelling you experience immediately after the procedure should subside in a day or two. Let your dentist know if you experience:

  • Rashes and hives
  • Swelling that lasts over a day
  • Ongoing pain symptoms

Let your dentist know if your pain medications aren’t effective as well.

You should also pay attention to your daily routine. First, avoid eating until you no longer feel numb. Otherwise, you might risk biting your tongue.

Plan to eat soft foods after the procedure, including soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Give your body the proper nutrients without consuming foods that require chewing.

Avoid smoking or vaping for the week after the procedure. 

Get Rest

Avoid exercising as you heal from your dental root canal. Instead, take a few days to rest.

Otherwise, exercising too soon could leave you feeling achy. Your mouth might start bleeding if you overexert yourself as well. Try to take everything at a slow, relaxed pace as you heal.

Taking a day or two to rest will help improve your recovery time. It’s normal to feel sore, uncomfortable, or tired after the procedure. Sleep and stay off your feet to give your body the chance to heal. 

Brush and Floss

Maintain proper oral hygiene following your root canal treatment.

First, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day. Don’t use too much pressure when brushing. Consider using a toothpaste that features fluoride.

Floss every night to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth as well.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene could help you avoid complications. 

Follow Up

Make sure to follow up with your dentist after your dental root canal procedure.

After their root canal procedure, some patients have a crown put into place. You might need a temporary crown while the permanent one is created. If your crown gives you any problems, make sure to let your dentist know.

For example, you might experience pain or irritation when you eat or bite down. Some patients experience pain and swelling. If these problems sound familiar, follow up to avoid possible infection.

Happy Smiles: Prepare for Your Root Canal Procedure Recovery

Make sure to use these tips following your root canal procedure. Following these tips will give your body the chance to heal following treatment. Once you’ve healed, you can start showing off your beautiful, restored smile.

Want to talk to your local dentist about your upcoming root canal treatment? We can’t wait to see you. 

Book an appointment at our offices today to get started.

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