Most people shudder at the words “root canal”, aware of its bad reputation and expecting lots of discomfort. However, the amount of pain associated with root canals is reportedly about the same as a normal filling. While it may be scary to undergo the procedure, remember this—a little discomfort now can save you much more discomfort down the line.
Are you feeling anxious about your root canal therapy? Knowing what will happen may help ease your nerves. Read along to learn what to expect during recovery.
Will Recovery Be Painful?
A root canal involves a deep cleaning inside of your tooth, which can irritate surrounding nerves and gums. It’s normal to experience some sensitivity, soreness, and mild to moderate discomfort for a few days following the surgery. However, it’s not as bad as you may think! The pain you feel from the infected tooth before the root canal may be much worse than the procedure itself.
Any discomfort you feel afterward can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications, like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or your dentist may provide you with prescription medication.
When Should I Seek Help?
Though the sensitivity and discomfort associated with a root canal should go away within a few days, contact your dentist right away if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain or pressure lasting more than a few days
- Discomfort is unrelieved using OTC medication
- Noticeable swelling inside or outside your mouth
- Allergic reaction to medication (rash, hives, itching)
- Your bite feels uneven
- The temporary crown or filling comes out (if one was put in place)
- Symptoms experienced before the procedure return
Aftercare Tips
Following the right steps at home can help your mouth heal quickly and easily. Here are a few tips for a breezy recovery:
- Use an ice pack. Hold it against your cheek and jaw on the side of your root canal to control swelling. Doing this often will speed up recovery and alleviate discomfort.
- Take it easy and avoid strenuous exercise. Exercising can worsen discomfort and hinder the healing process. Avoid it for a few days to prevent damaging your temporary crown and to let your body recover. Instead, get lots of rest so you can get back on your feet in no time.
- Eat soft foods. Your tooth will be somewhat sensitive during recovery. To avoid damage or severe discomfort, eat soft foods like oatmeal, eggs, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. It’s also best to avoid very hot foods and drinks.
- Gently clean your teeth. You will need to keep your teeth clean following a root canal to prevent infection. Gently brush around the treated area and avoid using lots of force when flossing.
Now that you know what to expect, you can follow the proper aftercare steps to ensure a speedy and painless recovery. You’ll be enjoying a healthy, beautiful smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Ye Wang strives to provide each patient with high-quality, personalized dental care that meets all their oral health needs. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2001 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and is the founder of Plum Grove Family Dental. If you’re struggling from a severe toothache, Dr. Wang can help alleviate your discomfort and restore your smile to full functionality using root canal therapy. To determine if this treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation via our website or by calling (847) 221-5860.