Do's and Don'ts After Root Canal Treatment

If one of your teeth has been severely affected by decay, you may need a root canal to remove the infection and restore your oral health. While root canals are generally effective procedures, what you do after the treatment can influence its success. 

Here are some do's and don'ts that you should follow after a root canal treatment to speed up healing. 

Do's After Root Canal Treatment 

First of all, here's what you should DO after root canal therapy:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene 

While you should avoid brushing directly on the treated tooth for the first 24 hours after the root canal treatment, it's important to take care of your oral hygiene. Use a mouthwash to kill any bacteria in your mouth.

• Eat Soft Foods

You must give the treated tooth some time to heal before you can return to your regular diet. Stick to soft foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, and yogurt for the first few days after the treatment.

• Avoid Biting Down on the Treated Tooth

While you may feel normal quite rapidly after the root canal treatment, you should avoid biting down on hard or chewy foods. 

• Follow up With Your Dentist

Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the tooth and ensure it is healing properly. If you notice anything strange before this appointment, don't hesitate to contact your dentist and let them know. 

Don'ts After Root Canal Treatment 

Here's what you shouldn't do after root canal therapy:

• Don't Neglect Your Oral Hygiene

Now is more important than ever to take care of your oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth will ensure that no bacteria can get trapped in the root canal, causing more damage. 

• Don't Smoke or Drink Any Alcohol 

Smoking can interfere with the healing process and affect the effectiveness of the treatment. The same stays true for alcohol. 

• Don't Eat Immediately After the Root Canal 

Because of the anesthesia, your mouth will still be numb for a few hours after the treatment. It's best to avoid eating, so you don't accidentally bite your tongue or cheeks. 

• Don't Forget to Take Your Medication As Prescribed By Your Doctor 

If the infection is severe, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics first to help clear it out. Take your medication as prescribed, as failing to do so will only prolong your suffering. 

Are You Experiencing Intense Dental Pain? Call Us Right Now! 

An infected tooth can cause debilitating pain and should be treated as soon as possible. Don't wait a moment longer. Get in touch with Alliance Family Dentistry, tell us about your problem, and we will make sure to schedule an appointment the same day. 

If you have a dental emergency in Colorado Springs, call us at (719) 955-4023. If you just want to book a regular appointment, you can do so online.