Do's and Don'ts after a root canal treatment

A root canal treatment takes 1 to 3 appointments to complete. The number of visits depends on the amount of infection in the teeth.

Between appointment care and post-root canal, proper care is essential for the success rate of a root canal.

#1 Anesthetic effect

Do not chew till the anesthetic effect completely wears off

Root canal treatment is performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort on the dental chair. The post-anesthetic numbness can last for 2-4 hours. This numbness can be present on lips, cheeks, tongue, and teeth. One should avoid chewing on the operated side until the numbness completely wears off.

#2 In-between appointment care

Do not eat Sticky, hard foods

The dentist will be placing a temporary filling between your root canal appointment to protect the tooth between your visits. To protect the tooth and the temporary filling

1. Avoid chewing sticky foods

2. Avoid biting hard foods

3. If possible, chew only from the opposite side of your mouth

Sometimes, a small portion of the temporary filling or the crown of the tooth can chip off, This is usually not a problem. In case the entire filling comes off visit your dentist.

#3- Pain and Discomfort

Do take a pain killer after the appointment

You may experience some pain and discomfort immediately after a root canal, even when you did not have any pain before treatment. You can take an over-the-counter pain killer. Pain can last for a few days to weeks. If you are experiencing uncontrollable and long-lasting pain or discomfort please visit your dentist.

#4- After Root Canal

Do get a crown after root canal treatment

Root canal treatment only removes the infected and inflamed tissues in the pulp. This treatment does not provide any strength to the teeth. To reinforce the damaged tooth you need to get a permanent restoration and a crown within a month after root canal treatment.

Root canal treatment does not guarantee any cavities or gum disease. During root canal treatment and after the procedure it is necessary to follow your regular oral hygiene measures such as brushing and flossing.