What You Should Do After a Root Canal Treatment
Jan 07 , 2022
Root canal, known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure that will cleanse your tooth inside out. The procedure clears out the affected pulp, which is then replaced using a filling. Finally, a crown is placed to seal the tooth properly and cover up the tooth.
Endodontic treatment at Monarch Dentistry and the healing journey are unique to every individual. Following instructions directed by your dentist will ensure a smooth and quick recovery. Get a root canal in Burlington, Plains West, ON, from our very own specialists.
Caring Tips for Your Mouth After The Treatment
There are several tips one can follow to speed up root canal treatment and prevent infection. They include:
- Keeping Your Head Elevated And Avoid Eating Immediately
Some pain and swelling around your mouth may be experienced. Elevating your heading will help in minimizing the pain. While sleeping, add an extra pillow during the first few days.
Discomfort and pain are to be expected in your jaws and gums. Take prescribed medication by your dentist to manage it.
You are at risk of a gum infection after a root canal procedure. To prevent this, regularly gargle your mouth with warm salty water.
To reduce inflammation and prevent infection, eat ice cream or press an ice pack. During the first few days, place the ice pack for about 10 to 15 minutes. This should be repeated a few times throughout the day.
- Proper Oral Hygiene Practice
Proper dental hygiene will speed up the healing process and prevent a possibility for a similar procedure. These simple habits include flossing and brushing teeth twice a day. However, when performing these acts after the procedure, extra care is needed. To avoid irritation or disturbing the affected area, brush and floss gently.
After the procedure, avoid strenuous activities during the first 48 hours. Then, put your feet up and take your time to relax. Within no time, you will be up and running, of your take care of yourself.
If the symptoms get severe, call our dentist in Aldershot for a checkup. These severe symptoms could include bleeding, fever, excessive pain or any medical reaction.
How Long Should You Wait Before Eating or Drinking After Root Canal Therapy
Taking hard food substances after a root canal procedure may damage or break the treated area. Eating is recommended after the numbness has worn off. This will prevent accidental biting of your tongue or harming your teeth.
Despite the need to take soft foods, a balanced diet is important. Foods that are rich in vitamin C will help boost your immunity throughout the healing process.
Due to the natural tooth sensitivity after the procedure, soft food substances are recommended. They include:
Vegetables such as mashed potatoes, riced cauliflower are easy to chew after the procedure. To avoid stressing the affected side, use the opposite side of your mouth to chew food. You can also juice the vegetables and still gain the benefits they provide.
Fruits such as raspberries or bananas can be cut into pieces for easy intake. Smoothies can also be made from a mixture of various fruits. Fruits can provide minerals and vitamins that will trigger your body’s healing process. Some fruits that can be made into smoothies include mangoes, peaches, pineapples, or apples.
For people who are lactose intolerant, dairy products can be a great choice. Ice cream and yogurts can be soothing and prevent bleeding. This is because they can be cold and creamy. In addition, they are great during the first day after the procedure since they do not require chewing. Other products of dairy products are scrambled eggs and milk.
Carbohydrates such as pancakes, brown rice, macaroni and cheesecake be a great addition.
What Not To Do
Certain food substances should be avoided after the procedure. This is because they will aggravate the sensitivity and add more pain to the affected area. Some of these include:
- Sticky and chewy foods such as caramels, steaks, candies or crusty bread.
- Very hot or cold food substances and beverages that can irritate sensitivity
- Crunchy foods such as apples, carrots or corns
- Hard foods such as nuts or ice. These could cause damage to the surgery site or cause pain.
- Avoid alcohol as it can increase bleeding.
