Root canal therapy is used to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or decayed. During this procedure, the damaged and decayed portion of the pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is disinfected and sealed.
At Greystone Family Dental, our dentists are highly skilled and able to treat and repair teeth, preventing the need for extraction and preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. To ensure recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible following root canal therapy in Varsity, we recommend following these five tips:
Pain Management
It is normal to experience some tenderness and inflammation following root canal treatment, but these symptoms will only last a few days in most cases. Most of the time, pain can be managed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. However, if your pain is very bad, your dentist in Varsity may prescribe some stronger pain medication.
A good way to keep your mind off the pain is to distract yourself with fun activities, such as going for a walk, reading a book, or visiting with friends.
If you notice that your pain lasts longer than a few days or worsens, it is good to visit your dentist for a checkup.
Choose Your Meals Wisely
Due to the sensitivity that often comes along with root canal treatment near you, it is essential to be selective about the foods you eat. Hard, chewy, or spicy foods can irritate the sensitive area even more than it already is and possibly even displace the filling that was placed there.
For the first few days following your procedure, our dentist near you recommends that you choose softer foods, such as eggs, soups, and oatmeal. It is also a good idea to be mindful of the temperature of your meals. Foods that are very hot or cold can also cause some undue tooth sensitivity.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Following a good oral hygiene routine will not only help you recover quicker but will also protect your remaining teeth from infection and decay. Maintaining a routine of brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day will make a big difference to your oral health. However, ensure that you brush and floss gently so that you do not irritate the treatment area.
Get a Dental Crown Placed as Soon as You Can
After your initial root canal treatment, our dentist will place a temporary filling until your mouth has time to heal fully, and a permanent crown can be placed over the top to provide it with strength and protection. This crown must be placed as soon as your dentist recommends it to prevent damage to the newly restored tooth.
Follow the Instructions Provided by Your Dentist
Every single patient’s procedure, treatment, and recovery process will be unique, and it is important that you follow the instructions that your dentist has provided specifically for you. Following your dentist’s instructions will ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
If you are experiencing pain or suspect that you may be suffering from a tooth infection, please do not hesitate to contact our team of dedicated dental professionals at Greystone Family Dental. We are happy to provide root canal treatment to our patients to maintain their natural smiles for as long as possible. Please get in touch with us to book your appointment today!