The purpose of root canal therapy is to remove a damaged or diseased pulp from inside a tooth. By removing the infected pulp, root canal therapy can preserve the natural tooth and prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
After the endodontic treatment is complete, it’s important to follow a strict set of aftercare instructions in order to promote a smooth recovery and limit discomfort.
We recommend that you:
Follow Dietary Restrictions
Once a root canal is complete, we advise patients to stick to soft foods until the sensitivity and swelling have subsided and the permanent dental crown has been placed over the tooth. Soft foods that won’t damage your tooth include foods like low-sugar yogurt, mashed potatoes, warm soup, mangos, bananas, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, smoothies, and more.
Gently Brush & Floss
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes when cleaning around the healing tooth. Never brush vigorously during the healing process. If you brush too harshly, you can cause additional pain and sensitivity.
Expect Some Mild to Moderate Discomfort
Some sensitivity and discomfort can be expected after completing endodontic treatment. We advise taking the recommended dosage of an over-the-counter pain reliever to minimize any discomfort. For sensitivity, be gentle with your tooth while it heals and be mindful of what you’re eating and how hard you’re brushing. If you start to experience severe pain, reach out to our office immediately.
Get Some Rest
If possible, we recommend taking a few days off after root canal therapy. The more time you have to sleep and take it easy, the better. Patients who have time to relax often recover faster than those who try to keep up with their fast-paced lives after their procedure.
Consult with Our Team!
At Farmington Dental & Orthodontics, we send patients home with extensive guidelines to help them have a quick, successful recovery. If you have any questions about endodontics or the root canal recovery process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
