You’re sipping on your favourite cold drink, and suddenly there’s a sharp, lingering pain. Or you wake up with a throbbing toothache. Maybe it hurts when you bite down and chew.
Any of these signs could indicate a dental emergency that requires prompt attention, and if you have an infection that requires root canal therapy, it’s essential to follow specific aftercare tips to ensure a fast, smooth recovery.
What Is a Root Canal?
When bacteria enter your tooth’s inner pulp chamber and cause an infection, a root canal is the procedure that removes the infected pulp and restores your tooth.
Root canal therapy has a bad reputation for being painful, but once we numb your mouth with anaesthetic, you shouldn’t feel any more discomfort.
Root Canal Aftercare: Tips and Tricks
After your root canal, there are some things you can do to recover as quickly and comfortably as possible:
- When your mouth is still numb, be careful not to bite your cheek or tongue.
- Avoid extremely hot, cold or spicy foods for a few days.
- Don’t eat crunchy or hard foods until after your crown placement, as they can break your weakened tooth.
- Stick to softer foods, such as eggs, soup, yogurt and mashed potatoes until your mouth heals.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate any tenderness or jaw stiffness.
- Place an ice pack on the outside of your face to reduce swelling.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater; this will soothe your gums.
- Brush your teeth gently, being extremely careful around your treated tooth.
- It’s best to avoid tobacco and strenuous activity for the first 24 hours.
- Arrange a visit with our dental clinic if you experience severe pain, a fever, extreme swelling or a pimple on your gums.
Need an Emergency Dentist in Charlestown, NSW?
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or another dental emergency, our caring dental team will happily assist you! At Charlestown Dental Care, we’re committed to alleviating your discomfort and restoring your oral health.
So, for a root canal in Charlestown or the surrounding area, feel free to call us on (02) 4942 1633.
We hope to hear from you soon.
