A root canal is an operation that provides a way to save damaged, natural teeth and prevent patients from getting dental bridges and implants. This treatment will likely be uncomfortable after the anesthesia wears out, but it’s a necessary procedure many patients have to undergo.
If you are bound to receive this treatment soon, you need to know how to care for it well after the procedure. That is the only way to lessen the pain you are about to experience. Here are the things you need to know.
What Happens During Root Canal Procedures
Before you can understand how to care for after root canal procedures, you need to understand what exactly happens during these procedures. The tooth roots have pulp tissue inside them. The pulp is full of blood vessels, nerves, and lymph nodes. When you have a problem with your teeth, it is often because the pulp becomes infected.
Dentists perform root canal procedures to eliminate the infection inside the teeth and preserve the tooth. Four methods are used to perform the root canal. They are:
- Symptom Relief Method: The dentist drills in the center of the tooth until they hit the area where the infection is present. The dentist then breaks the tooth and cleans it using ultrasonic power.
- Mechanical Method: This is the most common, fast, and efficient method dentists use.
- Therapeutic Endodontic Method: In case the infection has spread to deeper layers of the tooth, this method will be used. This method is also called surgical endodontics.
- Microsurgery: This is the method used in an emergency when the dentist needs to save the tooth as soon as possible.
How to Care for After Root Canal Procedures
After the dentist is done with the root canal procedure, you will be recommended to take some painkillers. You must take the painkillers on time and follow the other instructions.
Ice: Applying ice is a good idea as it helps with the pain. Applying ice for as long as possible is highly recommended.
Food: It is a good idea that you stick to soft and cold food while the pain is still severe. You should also avoid acidic and spicy food. Instead, it would be best to stick to pasty foods, like pizza and mashed potatoes. Drink plenty of water to reduce the swelling. It would help if you also drink plenty of fluids, preferably non-alcoholic ones, to help you deal with the pain.
Activity: Try to avoid strenuous activities that can cause you pain. You should try not to move your mouth while in the healing phase. You should also try to go to bed as soon as possible, but avoid lying down if possible.
Oral Hygiene: Try to maintain oral hygiene, but do it gently. Don’t apply too much pressure because it can cause pain. Once allowed, brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and warm water.
Dentists will recommend you see an oral surgery specialist after the root canal procedure, so you should also visit one.
Conclusion
As you can see, you need to know things before and after the root canal procedure to make sure it is a success. If you plan to get a root canal procedure, try to prepare yourself for the pain. Take all the necessary steps and make sure you follow your dentist’s instructions. You should also see a specialist to help you with the problem.
If you’re looking to get root canals in Holladay, UT, Smart Dental Care has you covered. We offer a range of quality, advanced, and family-friendly dental services. Get in touch with us, and schedule an appointment today!