8 Helpful Tips For Recovering From A Root Canal
If the idea of getting a root canal scares you, you are not alone. Root canals have a reputation of being long and painful procedures. However, the advances in the dentistry field have made the procedure simpler and a lot less painful. If the root canal treatment is not complicated, it can be completed in one appointment. If there are a lot of roots on the tooth, the procedure will usually require at least two appointments. Before your endodontist from a place like http://www.vbandk.com/ begins the procedure, he will thoroughly numb the area so that you feel no discomfort. If you take good care of yourself after the procedure, you will recover in no time. Here are eight helpful tips for recovering from a root canal.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
It is a wise idea to avoid strenuous activities for at least the first few days after your root canal. If you try to lift something too heavy or do a grueling workout, it can cause your jaw to ache and even promote bleeding. Take it easy for a few days and get as much rest as possible. If your job requires a lot of physical exertion, you should think about taking some days off.
Take Your Pain Medication
The treated tooth might be a little tender for a day or two, so remember to take your medication as prescribed. Take the the medication as soon as you start to feel discomfort.
Do Not Smoke
If you are a smoker, you should at least quit the habit during the recovery process. Smoking inhibits proper blood flow and introduces carcinogens to your repaired tooth. If you smoke right after your root canal, it will delay the recovery process.
Eat Soft Foods
Your mouth will be pretty sensitive after a root canal, so you should eat soft foods for the first few days. If you eat something too hard or crunchy, it can hurt the affected area and prolong the recovery process. Good foods to eat after your root canal therapy are broth, mashed potatoes, jello, bananas and yogurt.
Keep Your Head Elevated
Remember to keep your head elevated for the first few days after your root canal therapy. If you do not keep your head elevated, it can increase bleeding and lengthen the recovery process. When you are lying down in your bed, put at least two pillows behind your head to elevate it.
Floss Carefully
Be careful when flossing the treated tooth. If you floss too aggressively, you can dislodge the temporary filling your endodontist put on the tooth. Just floss the tooth in a gentle zig-zag motion.
Rinse Your Mouth With Salt Water
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water a few times a day can kill bacteria and reduce a lot of discomfort in your mouth. After you put two teaspoons of salt in a glass of water, gargle the solution in your mouth for a minute.
Use an Ice Pack
If the tooth that was given a root canal feels sore, try applying an ice pack on your cheek. The ice will reduce a lot of the swelling and help you feel better. Just sit on the couch and keep the ice pack on your cheek for about 15 to 20 minutes.
If you follow these helpful tips, you will recover from your root canal a lot faster. However, if you experience swelling or intense pain a couple of days after your root canal, contact your endodontist as soon as possible. He will look at the treated tooth and determine what the problem is. If he finds an infection, he will likely prescribe antibiotics.