I’m Getting a Root Canal: What Is the Recovery Process Like?
If you have a persistent toothache, it could be an early sign of an infected tooth. Thankfully, treatment for a root canal infection is fairly straightforward. It’s also less painful than pop culture has led you to believe. Modern sedation and pain management options mean you can leave our Brooklyn, NY, dental practice feeling great.
But after your root canal is over, what then? You’re probably wondering about the healing process after getting a root canal. The team at Brooklyn Heights Dental would like to go over some of the basics of root canal recovery.
How Long Does It Take to Heal After a Root Canal?
It usually takes a little less than a week to recover from a root canal and return to normal activities. You can keep recovery times down by following the aftercare advice below.
Managing Your Initial Pain and Discomfort
Some soreness is common after a root canal is performed. You can manage your discomfort by taking pain medication as directed.
Adjusting Your Diet as You Recover
For the first few days after your root canal, stick to soft foods that you can ingest with ease. Yogurt, apple sauce, mashed potatoes, and similar food items are ideal.
You should also avoid chewing on the side of your mouth that’s been treated in order to avoid discomfort and complications with recovery.
When you finally get a permanent custom dental crown placed, you can return to eating solid foods and chewing on the treated side of your mouth.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Continue to brush your teeth and floss normally as you heal. Just be extra delicate around the treated tooth so you do not dislodge the temporary restoration or cause discomfort.
Returning to Work and Normal Activities
Most patients are able to go back to their job or classes the day after their root canal. If you have a physically demanding job, you may want to take a bit more time off. Our dentists can discuss this with you as part of the consultation process.
Things You Shouldn’t Do as You Heal
Generally speaking, here are a few things you shouldn’t do while you recover from a root canal:
- Smoking
- Drinking alcoholic beverages
- Eating very crunchy or chewy foods
- Putting pressure on the treated tooth
You can resume these activities when your dentist says it is okay to do so.
Urgent Issues That Require Professional Attention
If you notice any of the following while you’re healing from a root canal, be sure to call our dental office in Brooklyn Heights as soon as possible:
- The temporary restoration falls out
- You experience persistent swelling more than two days after treatment
- The gum or jaw pain does not subside after the root canal
- Your bite feels uncomfortable
- The permanent restoration falls out or feels loose
We’re Here to Enhance Your Oral Health
In addition to root canal therapy, Brooklyn Heights Dental offers numerous dental procedures that restore your oral health. We’re proud to help patients in Fort Greene, Park Slope, Dumbo, and other neighborhoods around Downtown Brooklyn.
Contact Brooklyn Heights Dental Today
For more information about root canals and other procedures that can help enhance your health, contact our dental practice. You can also reach the team at Brooklyn Heights Dental by calling (718) 857-6639.