There are misconceptions and myths surrounding root canal treatment. It’s painful, it’s discomforting, it causes illness and there are no long-term benefits. Although you should expect some discomfort after treatment, by no means is it long-term pain. Due to advanced technology, root canal treatments are smooth, safe and typically pain-free.
Whilst this is true, after root canal treatment you must look after it appropriately. Most people report little sensitivity 24 hours after root canal treatment. Pain typically decreases over time. However, you must look after it for the best outcome possible. The medication to numb your mouth during procedure will wear off, causing a tender feeling in the area.
Pain may or may not increase during healing. Here are four key suggestion for the best aftercare treatment for your root canal.
THE FOUR SUGGESTIONS
- Temporarily Change Your Diet – Eat softer foods and avoid hard and crunchy solids. This increases the risk of temporary filling becoming damaged, causing more pain. Until a final restoration is in place, eat softer foods including soup, potato, and vegetables.
- Book Yourself in For Routine Check-Ups – To ensure your root canal is as comfortable as possible and that it’s in good hands, book regular appointments with your dentist as further recommendation can be advised to ensure your root canal is long-lasting.
- Perform Correct Oral Hygiene – You must continue to brush your teeth and floss twice a day around the surrounding area of your root canal. It is important that you treat your root canal exactly like your normal teeth to give it the best results. It is recommended that a soft-bristle brush is used to go over the affected area very gently. This limits any bacteria forming. You can also use mouthwash to keep the surrounding area clean.
- Keep the Affected Area at Ease – The surrounding area with the root canal will be sensitive and swelling may exist. Make sure you take adequate rest and avoid any kind of physical activity. Along with this, ensure that you keep your jaw muscles relaxed and keep chewing and talking to a minimum.
FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
You may also experience a form of swelling after root canal treatment. The swelling may occur once the anesthetic wears off. The misconceptions that have previously been demonstrated cannot be further from the truth. Any prescribed antibiotics must be taken directly as per dentist recommendations. This is important to avoid any infection. If the above tips are followed, root canal treatment will be increasingly worthwhile.
If you require further information on root canal treatment, Ashfield Family Dental has you covered. Click here now to find out more. Alternatively, if you need root canal treatment, contact us here and book yourself in for your first appointment with our dental specialists here at Ashfield.