After Care For Root Canal Treatment
Typically root canal recovery time is less than a few days and most people find they can return to regular life within a few hours of treatment. In some rare circumstances it can take up to a few weeks to allow for the tooth to completely settle down.
For the first few days following treatment the tooth may feel sensitive due to tissue inflammation and a mild discomfort may be more noticeable when biting and chewing or in reaction to a change in temperature in the mouth, when eating or drinking hot and cold beverages or food. This can be managed by following the advice below:
Using your tooth
It is important to be gentle on your tooth following root canal treatment. Take care when biting on this tooth in the first few weeks after treatment.
Wait until you are no longer numb before attempting to eat anything
If you do, you risk biting or burning your tongue, cheek or palate as you will not be able to adequately feel your soft tissues until the local anaesthetic has worn off.
Mild swelling
If you experience any mild swelling, you can apply a cold compress or ice pack.
Rest
Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first 48 hours following treatment.
Cleaning
It is important to continue to keep the area clean. You should brush and floss as normal.
Pain
Your dentist may advise taking over-the-counter pain medication following your treatment such as ibuprofen, Panadol or a combination of both. These are best started before your local anaesthetic wares off as discomfort will be the most noticeable in the first few hours after your root canal. If you have severe pain or discomfort that lasts longer than a week, please call us.
Antibiotics
In some cases your Dentist may instruct you to take antibiotics. This is not always necessary and is only required in cases where the chances of a successful outcome are lower than normal, or in cases where the infection is so severe that it may impact the effectiveness of local anaesthetic. It is important that you follow your dentists’ instructions regarding antibiotics.
Make an appointment with Restore Dental & Prosthodontics today!
If you’re looking to book an appointment with us, please call reception on 07 3483 2000, e-mail reception@restoredental.com.au or by using our online form, and one of our team will be in touch shortly.
