Canal Care

Immediately After Your Root Canal

The anesthesia will numb your mouth for several hours, so it’s important to avoid eating or drinking until the feeling returns. This helps prevent accidental biting, burning, or injuring of the numbed area, as well as accidental damage to the treated tooth.

Once the anesthesia wears off, you can start eating again. To avoid damaging the treated tooth, chew on the side of your mouth opposite to where the root canal was performed. Eat carefully and try to minimize chewing. Since your mouth will be swollen and sensitive, avoid foods that might further irritate it. Opt for soft foods such as fruit smoothies, yogurt, and soft cereal immediately after your root canal.

Over the Next Few Days

The first few days are critical for a successful recovery. While pain and discomfort are normal, you should take steps to minimize them and avoid further irritation or damage.

Eating

During the recovery period, avoid irritating or injuring your mouth. Since your mouth will be swollen and sensitive, focus on reducing swelling and allowing time for healing. Continue chewing on the side of your mouth that didn’t undergo the root canal.

Avoid overly hot or cold foods and drinks. Choose items at a mild temperature to prevent sensitivity and discomfort.

Stay clear of chewy or sticky foods that could dislodge temporary fillings or crowns. Avoid chewing gum.

Refrain from eating hard foods such as apples, ice, candy, and carrots, which can damage the treated tooth.

Avoid spicy foods that may irritate sensitive areas.

Stick to soft foods that are easy to eat and require minimal chewing.

Oral Hygiene

Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial during your recovery. Brush and floss the affected area gently. Avoid pulling floss around the treated tooth to prevent dislodging the temporary filling. Increase your use of mouthwash as well.

Pain Management

Experiencing some discomfort for several days post-procedure is normal, especially during eating. A dull ache is expected and usually subsides within a few days, though it may linger for a few weeks.

Follow the prescribed pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications as directed. If an antibiotic was prescribed due to an infection, continue taking it as instructed.

Rinsing with lukewarm salt water can help reduce pain and swelling. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, then rinse, swish, and spit. Do this up to three times a day.

Long-Term Aftercare

A follow-up appointment is necessary after your initial root canal procedure. Once your mouth has healed, the temporary filling will be removed, and the root canal will be permanently filled and sealed. A permanent filling or crown will be placed to complete the restoration of the tooth and prevent future breakage.

Usually, the last step after root canal treatment is the placement of a crown on the tooth. A crown covers and protects the tooth from breaking in the future. Unless otherwise noted by the dentist, it is critical to have a crown placed on your root canal therapy treated tooth as soon as possible.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital. Continue brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups to prevent plaque buildup and detect any issues early.