Root canal treatment is a safe, effective way to save teeth badly damaged by decay or trauma. Today’s root canal techniques limit discomfort and speed recovery, making the root canal experience a lot more pleasant than most people are led to believe.
In fact, many people experience a fair amount of anxiety about root canal procedures, probably in part because they don’t know what to expect afterward. The good news is, thanks to advances in pain management, recovery and healing following a root canal is quick and comfortable, too.
As a leading endodontics practice in New York City, Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC uses the most advanced, patient-friendly techniques for root canal therapy, helping patients restore damaged teeth, prevent tooth loss, and stay comfortable, too. In this post, our team helps you understand what to expect during the hours and days following your upcoming root canal treatment.
Root canal therapy uses special techniques focused on addressing decay and other damage located in the central pulp portion of the tooth. The pulp contains the nerves and blood vessels that support tooth health, and when the pulp is damaged, it threatens the tooth’s overall structure and integrity.
Root canal therapy uses special tools to access the pulp part of the tooth, along with the slender canals that connect the center of the tooth to the root and jaw. Using these tools, your endodontist removes the damaged pulp, cleans and seals the canals, and fills the tooth with a special material.
Finally, the tooth is covered with a temporary crown to protect the tooth while a permanent crown is made at a dental lab. You’ll come back for a second visit in a couple weeks to have the permanent crown applied. And that’s it!
When you leave our office, your tooth will still be numb from the local anesthetics we use. The numbness tends to wear off after a few hours, at which point you might notice some minor discomfort.
Most people find over-the-counter medication is very effective in managing pain and mild swelling and tenderness in the treatment area. However, if these medicines don’t help, we can prescribe a mild pain reliever for a few days.
For the first day or two, it’s a good idea to stick with soft foods to avoid irritating the area. You should avoid very hot foods and very spicy foods, too. Until the numbness wears off, stick with liquids to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheeks.
You can continue to brush and floss your teeth as usual, taking a little extra care around the treated tooth. Avoid smoking, since it can interfere with normal healing. Our team provides complete post-treatment instructions to help you stay comfortable while making sure the treatment site stays clean and cared for.
You’ll come back to the office in a couple weeks to have your permanent crown installed. At that point, our team evaluates your root canal and addresses any concerns you might have.
To keep your tooth healthy (and maintain overall oral wellness, too), it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at home, with regular brushing and flossing. Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects to prevent cracking the treated tooth or any other tooth.
If you smoke, consider quitting to reduce your risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Be sure to have regular twice-yearly checkups, and call the office if you develop pain or swelling in the future.
Root canal therapy helps relieve tooth pain and prevent the loss of a natural tooth. To learn more about root canal therapy, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC today.
