Having undergone root canal therapy in Okotoks, you now know the truth — that root canal is not the painful and complex procedure it was in the dark and dusty past. The modern truth is that today’s root canal procedures are a painless solution to eliminate infection and save teeth from preventable extractions. Painless as the procedure itself is, you’ll experience some discomfort during your recovery. Here’s how to minimize that discomfort and ensure your complete recovery.
Recovering From a Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure that’s done in order to remedy the effects of an oral infection. Such a procedure primarily focuses on treating your pulp, which is a small, fleshy sac located in the center of your tooth. Typically, if this is done, you won’t require a tooth extraction. Root canal therapy boasts a high success rate, so there’s no need to worry when you come in to receive it. However, it’s always a good idea to play it safe and take some extra precautions following your treatment.
1. Keep your head elevated when you’re resting.
Why is this necessary? Keeping your head raised, especially in the hours following your procedure, helps reduce the potential for bleeding to occur as well as any inflammation or swelling. By extensions, you’ll be less likely to experience any facial throbbing, particularly in your jaw or around the surgical site.
2. Rinse your mouth with saltwater.
Saltwater is very effective at eliminating sores and irritation because it’s a natural antiseptic – just make sure that the water is lukewarm and not too hot or cold. Mix approximately half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of water until it’s fully dissolved. Gently swish it around your mouth for a minute or two before spitting it out.
3. Don’t forget to receive your permeant crown.
A dental crown is placed over the top of your repaired tooth to strengthen and protect it. While you wait for it to be made at the dental lab, you’ll be given a temporary one – but remember, it isn’t designed to last for an extended period. Your mouth will only return to normal once you’ve had the permeant crown installed.
4. Be mindful of what you eat.
As is the case with most dental surgeries, you’ll need to alter your diet for the next few days to help your mouth heal properly.
You’ll be given local anesthesia to keep you relaxed during your appointment; this numbs your mouth, so you won’t be able to move it, never mind eat, for some time after anyways. However, once you’ve regained feeling, stick to soft foods. Food and drink that is spicy, crunchy, and difficult to chew can irritate your gums and even lead to bleeding. If you haven’t received your permanent dental crown yet, these foods can dislodge your temporary device too.
5. Don’t ignore any pain.
Once the anesthesia wears off, your mouth will be sore and stiff. Your dentist will most likely prescribe Advil or Tylenol to help you deal with any pain after your root canal. If the pain doesn’t fade or if it becomes more serious, get in touch with a dentist near you. After all, pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right.