In many cases, root canal recovery is even simpler than the procedure itself. Patients who are nervous about their upcoming procedure have nothing to fear, as they will be able to return to their normal lives afterward. A root canal is an essential procedure that entails saving a patient’s tooth and keeping it functional over the long term. After a simple recovery, most patients are pleased with the results.
While a root canal does require the dentist to access the innermost part of the tooth (the pulp chamber) and remove the blood vessels and nerves inside, this is a much simpler process than it sounds. Once the procedure is over, patients can expect to go home right away, though they should still plan ahead for the best recovery. After a root canal, patients should expect the following.
On the day of the root canal and 24 hours afterward, most patients will feel slightly sore once the numbing wears off. This discomfort is not from the tooth itself, as it no longer has nerves. Instead, it arises from general irritation in the area, since the tissues were exposed to vibrations and pressure during treatment.
Over-the-counter pain medication can make these first 24 hours manageable. Be sure to plan for a restful day: Avoid exercise, and try to lie down to give the body a chance to begin healing. If pain or throbbing persists, keep the head elevated to decrease blood pressure at the site of the root canal.
Most patients report that they feel back to normal a few days after their procedure, but recovery can last a little longer for more complex root canals, especially apicoectomies. These entail the endodontist performing a root canal through the tip of a tooth’s root. Sticking to a soft food diet can avoid aggravating the surrounding tissues. If any swelling persists, apply an ice pack to the face (not inside the mouth) for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off.
Once a root canal has been performed and the gums around the area have recovered, patients can expect their tooth to function normally over the long term. The teeth on either side of the affected tooth may be slightly more sensitive for a week or two after a root canal, as their nerves may have been agitated during the procedure. However, since the treated tooth was stripped of its nerve endings, no further pain should be present over the long term.
If you are facing the possibility of a root canal, rest assured that recovery is simple, and you will get to go back to your normal routine quickly. Please contact our office today in order to schedule your root canal or to learn more about the best ways to prepare for recovery.
Request an appointment here: https://santarosaendodontics.com or call Santa Rosa Endodontics at (707) 409-1177 for an appointment in our Ukiah office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Ukiah, CA.
Breaking a tooth can be a frightening time for anyone, and not knowing whether to seek emergency dental care for the broken tooth or wait for the regular office to open can add to the stress. The good news is that broken teeth are often resilient and can usually be restored to their normal function,…
Sedation dentistry helps patients stay calm, allowing periodontists to efficiently perform their work while ensuring their patient's comfort and safety. Many people suffer from severe dental anxiety. This fear can stop them from receiving the treatment they need and make their oral health suffer long-term, requiring more extensive treatment. Fortunately, there have been advancements in…
Regardless of the severity, a cracked tooth requires immediate professional treatment. While minor cracks may only need treatment options like dental bonding, tooth extraction is necessary for severely damaged teeth. However, an endodontist can consider various options that other professionals may not offer. An endodontist usually treats cracked teeth that are too damaged for minor…
When you have an infected or severely damaged tooth, a tooth extraction may seem the only option. However, endodontic therapy offers an alternative. It allows you to save your natural tooth and preserve your smile, avoiding the need for future tooth replacement. This procedure, commonly known as a root canal, is designed to remove infection,…
Sedation dentistry helps patients stay calm, allowing periodontists to efficiently perform their work while ensuring…
If the patient cannot find the pieces of the tooth or if they have been…
An endodontist is a dental specialist who treats problems inside the tooth with the dental…
When you have an infected or severely damaged tooth, a tooth extraction may seem the…
Infections that move into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body can be dangerous, so…
Going to the endodontist should be your first choice when you have tooth pain. This…
