A root canal may sound frightening, but it is a standard dental process to try and save your natural tooth! The treatment is done under anesthesia or sedation and is usually painless.
Your recovery process is also important in order to make sure everything is healed properly. If you are looking for root canal therapy in Saskatoon, knowing the proper aftercare will help with the healing process.
Taking care of yourself properly after a root canal can increase the speed and comfort of your recovery. Regardless of whether you just had treatment or are preparing for treatment, these tips will help you on your healing journey.
To start, it is important to follow up with your trusted and qualified dentist in Saskatoon to check on healing and to answer any questions you may have.
1. Follow your dentist’s instructions
Your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions. They will be personalized for you and usually include recommendations for medications, hygiene, and activities to avoid. By following the instructions, you are maximizing your chances for a healthy recovery, and you can avoid unnecessary complications.
2. Take prescribed medications as directed by the dosing schedule
Your dentist might write a prescription for antibiotics, which help to avoid infection or for pain medications to help manage your discomfort. Be sure to follow the regimen and not miss a dose. Even if you start feeling better, completing your antibiotics and pain medication is important for your body to restore and fully heal.
3. Avoid Eating Until Numbness has resolved
Your mouth might be numb for a few hours after your root canal procedure. Numbness introduces unexpected risks with eating and drinking because you don’t realize when you accidentally bite your tongue or cheek, which is a common occurrence during the root canal recovery. Be cautious, and wait until you are no longer numb to eat or drink anything.
4. Stick with Soft foods for a while
Your treated area might be sensitive, so eat foods that are easy to chew. Soft foods such as smoothies, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and soup will help keep you nourished without putting too much stress on your healing tooth. Ensure to avoid eating or drinking foods that are too hot, spicy, or acidic, as they can irritate the area. Eating carefully will also help to avoid accidentally damaging your temporary filling.
5. Don’t Chew on the Treated Side.
You should not chew with the treated side; we are trying to avoid having extra pressure on the treated tooth, and to avoid any injury to a temporary filling, or even any pain when chewing. This is very important, especially when healing and recovering from a root canal, since your tooth is still very fragile.
6. Keep your Mouth Clean
Oral care is very important, and your oral hygiene routine should not change following your procedure. You should brush and floss as you normally would, using caution around the treated area. You should rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce bacteria and assist with healing. You should avoid mouthwash that contains alcohol, as it can dry out your mouth and prevent healing. You should keep using a brush with soft bristles during this time as well, for a little extra protection.
7. Know the Signs for Urgent Treatment
Soreness is usually mild after root canal therapy, but be aware of signs that may require urgent treatment. Persistent swelling, facial swelling, fever, or severe pain, for example, are signs that may suggest that you may be experiencing root canal symptoms and, as a result, are dealing with an infection or other issues.
8. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Both smoking and alcohol will slow the healing process. Smoking slows the healing process because smoking reduces blood flow, which increases the risk of infection. Stay away from these for at least a few days post-treatment. Both substances can also increase oral dryness and create an environment where bacteria thrive. Giving your body a break from these habits helps speed up recovery.
9. Rest and Let Your Body Heal
Resting is just as important as medication and hygiene. Your body needs time and energy to heal, so avoid heavy physical activity for the first day or two. If you’re a student, consider taking a short break from school or sports. Elevate your head with an extra pillow while sleeping to reduce swelling. Even short naps can help your body repair faster and reduce stress on your system.
10. Don’t Skip the Follow-Up Appointment
A final crown or filling is usually placed after your root canal. Don’t miss this appointment—it’s a crucial part of the process. It strengthens your tooth and helps protect it from future damage.
Your care, your confident smile- starts here!
Root canals may sound intimidating, but with the right care and information, the recovery process can be smooth and straightforward. Your smile is worth protecting, and the steps you take after your procedure can ensure long-term oral health.
Ready to protect your smile and recover with confidence? Contact Hampton Village Dentistry today to book your appointment. We can always ensure that you smile your best always.