How To Take Care Of Your Teeth Aftercare A Root Canal Procedure?

Root canal treatment is a procedure that is used to treat dental infections, usually caused by the decay of a tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth, cleaning it, and sealing it. After the root canal procedure, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure that the tooth remains healthy and strong. In this article, we will discuss how to take care of your teeth after a root canal procedure. 

Do’s For Root Canal Aftercare

Caring for your root canal is an essential part of healing from the procedure

1. Brush & Floss Regularly

After a root canal procedure, it is essential to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. This will help to remove the plaque and food particles that accumulate on your teeth and prevent further infection. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. 

2. Use a Mouthwash

Using mouthwash is an effective way to reduce the risk of infection and keep your teeth and gums healthy. It also helps reduce bad breath, a common side effect of a root canal procedure. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to ensure that your gums and teeth stay healthy. 

3. Take Pain Medication

Pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help to reduce the discomfort and swelling associated with a root canal procedure. However, it is important to take the medication as prescribed by your dentist. 

4. Avoid Chewing Hard Foods

After a root canal procedure, it is important to avoid hard and crunchy foods. This is because the tooth has been weakened and can easily break if subjected to pressure. Stick to soft foods such as applesauce, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal until your tooth has healed.

5. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

It is essential to practice good oral hygiene after a root canal procedure. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing, using mouthwash, and avoiding tobacco products. This will help to keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent further infection. 

Don’ts For Root Canal Aftercare

1. Avoid Smoking

Smoking can lead to severe infection and irritation of the gums and teeth. It is important to avoid smoking after a root canal procedure to ensure that the tooth remains healthy and strong. 

2. Avoid Sugary Foods & Drinks

Sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities and lead to further damage to the tooth. It is important to avoid sugary foods and drinks after a root canal procedure to ensure that the tooth remains healthy and strong.

3. Avoid Chewing Gum

Chewing gum can put extra pressure on the tooth and lead to further damage. It is important to avoid chewing gum after a root canal procedure in order to ensure that the tooth remains healthy and strong. 

The Bottom Line

Root canal treatment is a procedure that is used to treat dental infections, usually caused by the decay of a tooth. After the root canal procedure, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and follow the do’s and don’ts discussed in this article in order to ensure that your tooth remains healthy and strong. 

FAQs 

Q: How long does it take for a root canal to heal? 

A: It usually takes about two weeks for a root canal to heal completely. However, the healing process can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the tooth. 

Q: Can I eat normally after a root canal procedure? 

A: Yes, you can normally eat after a root canal procedure. However, it is important to avoid hard and crunchy foods as they can cause damage to the tooth. 

Q: How often should I visit my dentist after a root canal procedure? 

A: It is important to visit your dentist every 6 months for a dental check-up. This will help to ensure that your tooth remains healthy and strong.