Undergoing a root canal can be a significant step towards saving your natural tooth and relieving pain caused by a severe infection. While the procedure itself is a critical part of your dental health journey, post-treatment care is equally important to ensure a trouble-free recovery from this dental treatment. 

As your trusted dentist in Maroubra, Australia we are pleased to provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to keep in mind after your root canal treatment.

After your dentist has worked on your tooth, your mouth will be deprived of sensation (numb) for a few hours due to local anesthesia. It’s crucial to avoid eating or drinking hot beverages until the numbness completely wears off, in order to prevent accidental biting inside of the cheek or burns. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side initially.

1. Efficiently Managing Discomfort

It’s very normal to experience some discomfort or mild pain once the anesthesia wears off. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage this discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions provided by your dentist. If pain persists or worsens, contact our dental clinic promptly.

2. Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is extremely vital for quick healing. Continue with your regular oral hygiene routine. Do make sure that you continue with your usual practice of brushing and flossing the area. Do not avoid the tooth. It’s very important that you keep the gums tough and healthy.

3. Avoiding Hard or Sticky Foods

Once, root canal treatment has commenced, it is important to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could put stress on the treated tooth. Once root canal treatment has commenced, the tooth does become more brittle and it is more prone to chip or break if something hard is bitten on, or you have bitten with the tooth in the wrong direction. It is important to avoid eating hard things on the tooth, such as crushed ice, chewing on chicken or lamb bones, pork crackling and nuts. Also be careful with hard, crusty bread!

 4. Temporary Tooth filling vs. Permanent:

In between root canal appointments, a temporary filling is placed in the tooth. At the completion of the root canal treatment It’s essential to attend the follow-up appointment to have the temporary filling replaced with a permanent one, and eventually a crown.

Most teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, would benefit from having a crown placed. The purpose of the crown is to protect and strengthen the root canal tooth so that you can eat with confidence on it, and it does not  chip or break in the future .

Neglecting or procrastinating this step can lead to reinfection or damage to the tooth.

5. Watch Out for Complications

Monitor the treated area for any signs of complications, such as swollen gums, prolonged pain, or an unusual discharge. These symptoms could indicate an infection or other issues that need immediate attention from your dentist. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic if you notice anything concerning.

Long-Term post root canal Care tips:

A tooth that has undergone a root canal can still function like your natural teeth with proper care. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the health of the treated tooth and to catch any potential issues early. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices will help ensure the longevity of your root canal treatment.

Stay in touch with your dentist throughout your recovery. Follow all provided instructions and don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have. Your comfort and health are our top priorities.

Closure

Root canal treatment is a significant step towards preserving your natural tooth as well as toothache relief in time. By following these post-treatment care guidelines, you can ensure a smooth recovery and maintain the health of your treated tooth. At Gentle and Caring Dentistry in Maroubra, we are here to support you at every step in your dental journey. 
Remember, taking care of your dental health is a continuous journey. Regular visits to your dentist and proper oral care at home are key to keeping your smile healthy and bright.