Root Canal Aftercare: What To Expect

In the days following a root canal procedure, patients can expect to experience some level of discomfort. However, with modern techniques and years of expertise, Dr. Shah and the rest of the Washington Dental Studio team can help to minimize pain and discomfort associated with root canals in Naperville, IL. Also, we’ll provide you with tips for proper aftercare, so any swelling or soreness can be managed at home.

What To Expect After Your Root Canal

With the following helpful tricks and tips, you’ll understand how to take care of your mouth after a root canal, and ensure a speedy recovery with minimal pain or discomfort.

Avoid Pressure

One of the most important facets of root canal recovery is to avoid putting pressure on the affected tooth. It is very common for the area surrounding the tooth to be sensitive and swollen after a root canal. Try not to chew with the side of your mouth that the root canal was performed so as not to aggravate the area, which can cause additional pain.

Giving your mouth time to recover is important as it helps reduce swelling and speed healing. Don’t try to force your bite to function at 100% right away, and take it easy for the first few days following your procedure.

Eat Carefully, Stick To Soft Foods

Like we said earlier, try to avoid chewing on the side the root canal was performed on. If it’s the side you normally chew on, it can be a difficult habit to break, but being fastidious about it will result in less swelling and discomfort. 

An easy solution to the chewing problem is to stick to eating softer foods for the first few days after your root canal, like yogurt, applesauce, or smoothies. Foods that don’t require excessive chewing are less likely to aggravate the treatment site and cause further discomfort.

Another common side effect of root canal therapy is a temporarily increased level of tooth sensitivity during the healing process. With that in mind, you might want to stay away from very hot or very cold drinks to save yourself from unnecessary aches and pains.

Brush gently

After your root canal therapy with our dentist in Naperville, your daily dental hygiene routine becomes even more important than before. When you brush and floss, be sure to be gentle about it so you don’t aggravate the affected area, but be thorough. Keeping bacteria at a minimum will minimize the risk of infection and further problems down the line. 

We also recommend increasing the use of mouthwash, (or a saltwater rinse) in the days following your root canal procedure.

Managing Post-Root Canal Pain

While keeping the treatment site clean and free from pressure or strain are the most important aspects of the healing process, managing pain can seem like it takes the lead in importance. Dr. Shah will provide recommendations for you based on your medical history and the complexity of your procedure. 

Most of the time, over-the-counter pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications are sufficient to alleviate any lingering soreness or tenderness you may feel after treatment. However, if the pain doesn’t subside after a few days, give our Naperville dental team a call at (630) 796-0030 or contact us online as this can be a sign of infection or other complications.