Root canal healing time varies from one person to the next. For the most part, healthy patients recover quite quickly, only experiencing pain from the treatment for a few days. However, complications may occur within any treatment that requires longer healing times. Additionally, people with certain health conditions, like diabetes, may take longer to heal in general.
The better you know your body and your personal pain tolerances, the better prepared you may be for the aftermath of a root canal. The good news is that there are things you can do to minimize your discomfort and shorten the healing process after a root canal. Here’s what you need to know about reducing your root canal healing time.
What Should You Expect During Initial Recovery from a Root Canal?
Most people do experience some pain and discomfort after a root canal. Some pain is normal. Fortunately, the pain only lasts a few days in most instances. If it lasts longer than a few days or if the pain is severe, consult your dentist.
Baby the tooth and surrounding teeth affected by the root canal for several days after the procedure to minimize the risk of aggravating the area or triggering pain. You also may experience some swelling in the area after the root canal. This, too, is normal. However, if the swelling persists or new swelling develops in the days after the procedure you should consult your dentist for further instruction.
Managing Pain After a Root Canal
Pain is quite common in the aftermath of a root canal. Depending on your personal pain tolerances, it may seem severe. However, most patients are able to manage with cold compresses applied to the cheeks and the use of over-the-counter pain medications.
If the pain lasts more than two or three days after your root canal, consider calling your dentist to see if there are other things you can do to reduce the pain and inflammation following your root canal procedure.
When Should You Be Concerned After a Root Canal?
While some pain and swelling are normal after a root canal, there are times when it may be a point of concern. For instance, if the pain is severe, you should contact your dentist right away. This is especially the case if the pain is severe and lingers more than a few days after the procedure and when the pain lessens and then returns or worsens.
The same holds true with swelling. There will be some initial swelling after your procedure. If that swelling diminishes and then returns it could be a sign of complications related to the root canal.
Finally, if you experience discharge from the treated tooth or the surrounding area, it could be a sign of a new abscess that needs to be addressed. While most people expect pain with an abscess, it isn’t always the case. If you notice a discharge, with or without pain, you should contact your dentist right away.
While you may be tempted to “wait it out,” that isn’t always the best advice. Addressing any potential issues or complications quickly can minimize your pain and play a vital role in your ability to save your natural tooth (or as much of your natural tooth as possible).
Protecting Your Mouth After Your Root Canal
Your dentist will send you home with a list of instructions following your root canal. Some people follow these instructions to the “T” while others quickly disregard them. However, these instructions are essential for helping you avoid unnecessary and sometimes painful complications.
For instance, the “no smoking” instructions after your root canal can reduce your risk of a painful dry socket and reduce your risk of developing an infection. The same holds true of the “no drinking from straws” rule. The truth is, you want to avoid unnecessary complications that could damage the work that has been done or place your tooth at risk. Follow the rules, even if you don’t like them, for the best possible outcome.
Why Trust Dr. Kawveh Nofallah, DMD, for Your Root Canal?
Dr. Kawveh Nofallah, DMD and his staff are dedicated to preserving and restoring beautiful smiles to all their patients. The dental office of Dr. Kawveh Nofallah utilizes the latest technology for sterilization, diagnostics, comfort, and pain management. If you’re looking for compassionate care, you’re going to love what Dr. Kawveh Nofallah has to offer whether you’re seeking a root canal, dental implants, or general dentistry services in Lakeland, FL.
Comments are closed.
Recent Comments