Learning you need a root canal probably isn’t the news you prefer to hear. Fortunately, these common procedures are extremely safe and offer patients the opportunity to feel relief from the pain caused by a serious infection. If you’ve received a breakdown of the actual procedure, you may be wondering what kind of recovery you’ll endure. A dentist in Westminster is here to alleviate your concerns and explain what you can expect while healing at home. They’ll also share which signs to watch for should you need to call your dentist for help.
Root Canal Post-Operative Expectations
Once your emergency dentist in Westminster completes your root canal procedure, you’ll receive a list of guidelines to follow while recovering at home. Following these tips will be pivotal to ensuring you experience no problems or issues that could cause you to come back in for additional assistance.
In the first few days, you can expect there to be:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Your mouth requires ample time to heal, so sensitivity and soreness are completely normal. To minimize these feelings, however, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers as well as consume soft foods. This not only decreases discomfort and swelling but by avoiding hard, crunchy foods, you can keep from biting down and apply unnecessary pressure to your surgical area.
- A Temporary or Permanent Filling: Your dentist will likely opt for a temporary or permanent filling after completing your root canal. This will help keep infection out, but it is important to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, especially if you receive a temporary.
- Additional Swelling: Because a root canal involves entering the tooth, there will be increased swelling and inflammation in the first few days. Considered temporary, you can expect it to reside after a few days. Using a cold compress can help but be mindful of any tooth sensitivity you might have. Getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids, and taking any prescribed medications as instructed will help.
The final step of any successful root canal is to return to your dentist’s office for a second appointment. This visit will involve receiving a permanent dental crown that will be placed over the tooth, allowing you to regain normal function again.
What Signs to Look for While Recovering
It’s not always easy knowing how much pain is normal or at what point the swelling should start to go down. After undergoing a root canal, you should know that no matter the concern, you should never be afraid to contact your dentist for questions about your recovery process. It is better to seek the help of a professional than put it off and watch it become worse.
A few signs that dictate you need to see a dentist include:
- Pain that does not dissipate within a few days but instead, becomes more severe and is not lessening with the help of medication
- Developing a fever, as this can be a sign of an infection
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Discolored pus is discharging from the surgical area
- Developing a bad taste in your mouth or your breath develops a foul odor
Undergoing a root canal is a safe and effective procedure. With a high success rate, it is rare for problems to develop; however, should you experience an issue during your recovery, make sure to let your dentist know as soon as possible so you can get the treatment you need to feel better in no time.
About the Author
Dr. Joanne Bancroft has been practicing dentistry since 2003. Earning her dental degree from the State University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2002, she completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. She earned the recognition of being one of Westminster’s Top 3 Local Dentists in 2019 as well as one of Colorado’s Top Dentists in 2020. Whether she is performing a general checkup or preparing an individual for a root canal, she believes in patient-focused treatment that ensures safety and comfort. Do you have a problem tooth that needs repairing? Do you believe you could benefit from root canal therapy? If so, contact us at (720) 458-6561.