When you are experiencing pain due to the inflammation or infection of the tooth pulp, the dentist will usually recommend a root canal treatment. It is an effective treatment to eliminate pain, save the tooth and restore functionality. At the dental office, the dentist will do their best to ensure a pain-free treatment and keep you comfortable. The dentist will provide detailed information since you will probably want to know what happens after the treatment.
A root canal is a treatment during which the dentist removes decaying or necrotic tissue from the tooth. The area is disinfected and treated to eliminate all traces of the infection. It is normal to notice some swelling, discomfort or sensitivity after the treatment. This may continue for several days or a few weeks.
The local anesthetic that the dentist will administer at the beginning of the treatment numbs the teeth for several hours. As the numbness starts to wear off, one might experience some sensitivity and discomfort. Most times, simply taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen should help with the pain. Patients who are concerned about the pain can discuss prescription options with the dental professional. If the pain escalates, prescription antibiotics may be required to treat a potential infection.
After the procedure, applying a cold compress to the face, 15 minutes at a time, can help prevent swelling. Patients will need to stick to a diet of soft foods and avoid anything that may irritate the gums. It is also advisable to avoid chewing around the area or touching the tooth.
In the following days, brushing should be done carefully so the toothbrush does not cause irritation. The area needs to heal and will be sensitive for some days after the root canal procedure. Touching the tooth and poor oral hygiene can cause reinfection.
Sometimes, the patient may need to return for a permanent crown. The dentist will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth and prevent further damage while the permanent crown is being made. It is better to avoid eating or drinking hot drinks or food until the numbness wears off. This is to prevent accidental bites or burns.
While wearing the temporary crown, it is best to avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage or expose the treated tooth. Brushing and flossing can continue normally until the dentist places the final dental crown.
Usually, the follow-up appointment for the permanent crown happens after two weeks. However, if patients experience increased pain, it could be the sign of an infection. They will need to contact the dental office quickly so that they can treat post-procedure complications. An appointment will also be required if the temporary crown breaks or comes off.
If you are currently experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, you need to book an appointment with the general dentist for treatment. If it is the case of an infection, the dentist will perform a root canal to restore your oral health.
Request an appointment here: https://www.kevinjdailydds.com or call Kevin J Daily DDS at (831) 580-1141 for an appointment in our Santa Cruz office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Santa Cruz, CA.
Finding out that you need a root canal can be nerve-racking. Caring for the treated tooth can be even more stressful. Knowing what to do after the treatment can help you prepare well for it. Here are some tips for a smooth and quick recovery after your root canal.The patient must wait to eat as…
A root canal treatment can restore your tooth. It is an invasive treatment that aims to remove the damaged or infected pulp. But what should you do after this outpatient procedure? Here are the details on what will happen after a root canal.The dentist will suggest waiting until the effects of the anesthesia fade before…
Root canal treatment is typically recommended as a last resort to save a severely damaged, infected, or decayed tooth. It is often a necessity when a tooth has a damaged pulp. The pulp refers to the soft tissues inside a tooth, which are stored in the pulp chamber, the innermost layer of a tooth.When a…
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is one of the most common dental procedures performed, but it’s certainly not one of the most enjoyable. It’s unpleasant to think about having an infected tooth removed and some of your jawbone along with it. To make things worse, it can be difficult to know if…
Looking for an emergency dentist in case your child experiences a dental emergency? It is a good idea to plan ahead of time. While some pediatric dentists offer emergency dental services, not all do. However, those who do, understand the importance of providing emergency dental care services, especially when the emergency has to do with…
Wondering if a dental cleaning helps prevent gum disease? Preventive dentistry, including routine dental cleanings, is essential to having a healthy mouth because it helps patients avoid cavities, enamel wear, and gum disease. Therefore, regular dental cleanings are crucial to a dental patient's oral health.Signing up for a dental cleaning on a regular basis is…