Many people dread hearing the term root canal. It conjures up images of being in pain, uncomfortable, restless, almost a sort of enduring torture. A root canal doesn’t have to be an entirely unpleasant thing since it is necessary to relieve pain or infection from a tooth. At Amherst Dental Practice, we want to be comfortable from the moment you enter our waiting room to when you walk out. We are a Winchester family dentist’s office that wants to make undergoing a root canal as painless as possible for you.
Want to learn more about how our cosmetic dentist can make having a root canal less stressful? Give our office a call at (540) 779-8661.
After a root canal procedure, it's natural to have some recovery and healing time. While individual experiences may vary, here's what you can generally expect during the root canal recovery process:
Numbness wearing off: The local anesthesia used during the root canal will gradually wear off in a few hours after the procedure. During this time, it's best to avoid eating or drinking until the feeling returns to prevent accidental injuries to your mouth.
Mild discomfort or soreness: It's common to experience mild discomfort or soreness in the treated area for a few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by your dentist, can help manage the discomfort.
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth: To allow the tooth to heal properly, avoid putting excessive pressure on the treated tooth. Stick to soft foods and avoid biting or chewing directly on the affected tooth until your dentist gives the green light.
Temporary crown or filling: In most cases, a temporary crown or filling will be placed over the treated tooth to protect it until a permanent restoration (like a dental crown) is made. Take care not to dislodge or damage the temporary restoration.
Improved symptoms: In the days following the root canal, you should notice a significant improvement in any symptoms you were experiencing before the procedure, such as toothache or sensitivity.
Oral hygiene: Continue with your regular oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the treated tooth. Brush and floss carefully to avoid disturbing the temporary restoration.
Follow-up appointments: Your dentist may schedule one or more follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and determine when the permanent restoration can be placed on the treated tooth.
Recovery time: While you may feel better after a few days, the complete healing of the treated tooth's supporting structures may take several weeks.
Rare complications: In some cases, complications may occur, such as persistent pain, swelling, or infection. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, contact your dentist promptly.
Always follow your Winchester dentist's post-treatment instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery and the long-term success of the root canal procedure. If you have any concerns or questions during the recovery process, don't hesitate to reach out to our dentist for guidance and support.
Winchester dentist Dr. Gerald Brown and our entire staff here at Amherst Dental Practice want you to know that we are here for your benefit and to support you through any dental procedure. We accept most insurance plans and our staff can courtesy file the claims for you to help free up time. Our office can create a personalized Winchester root canal experience for you.
Are you in need of a root canal in Winchester? Don’t hesitate to contact us at (540) 779-8661 to learn how we can make the procedure as pleasant as possible for you.