Root Canal Therapy Recovery
When bacteria reach the inner chambers of the tooth, whether due to injury or a cavity, patients develop a root canal infection. At this point, the only way to treat the infection is with root canal therapy, a procedure that removes damaged tissues from the tooth.
During root canal therapy, the dentist removes the infected material from the inner chambers and roots. Next, the root canals are filled with a rubber-like substance to avoid further infection. Finally, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to provide additional support.
The dentists at Chrisman & Wyse Cosmetic & General Dentistry in Bloomington, IL can perform this procedure to reduce discomfort and promote healing. The good news is that your procedure and root canal therapy recovery will likely be much faster and more comfortable than you imagined.
Wait. I’ve Heard Root Canal Therapy Is Painful.
Thanks to advances in dentistry, today’s root canal treatment is usually no less uncomfortable than a standard dental filling. In fact, many patients are pleasantly surprised that they have little to no pain during their recovery.
Generally speaking, the pain resulting from the dental infection requiring a root canal treatment is far greater than any discomfort resulting from the procedure. Although you may experience tenderness after your treatment, this can be controlled with over-the-counter medications and typically resolves quickly, in a matter of hours or a couple of days.
Pro Tips for a Quick and Pain-free Recovery
The rule of thumb when it comes to root canal recovery is following your doctor’s post-operative instructions. These guidelines are intended to decrease pain, facilitate healing, and reduce the likelihood of infection or other complications. In addition, here are some tips to help you have a fast and comfortable healing process.
Brush and floss carefully and gently. The treatment area will be sensitive in the days following your therapy, so use a soft-bristled toothbrush and take care not to irritate the area.
Watch what you eat. Much like the slight modifications you should make to your daily hygiene routine, take care about what you eat to avoid abrasions or pressure at the treatment site. This includes avoiding hot, sticky, and hard foods. You may want to avoid chewing on the side of the mouth treated for a couple of days.
Rinse your mouth after each meal. You can do this with an antibacterial rinse or warm salt water. This will keep the area clean and aid in comfort.
Call Your Dentist If...
You experience pain. Feeling some discomfort after a root canal therapy is expected. If the pain is severe, worsens, or does not resolve within a few days, you should contact your dentist. Other signs of infection that should trigger a call to your provider include:
- Swelling at the gums
- Severe inflammation or pain
- Inflammation at the jaw
- A dislodged restoration
- An allergic reaction
Learn More Today
If you need a root canal therapy, or suspect you do based on uncomfortable symptoms, do not delay in getting the treatment you need. Make your appointment today by contacting us online or by calling us at (309) 663-6393.