Mandatory Precautions to Take After Root Canal Therapy
A root canal therapy is an endodontic procedure that involves removing the infected dental pulp from a tooth. The dentist in Youngtown recommends it is an alternative to tooth extraction for a tooth with infected roots. However, the procedure is invasive. Once it is completed, the patient must follow some precautions. Continue reading for some of the mandatory precautions you must take
Safety Measures to Observe After Root Canal Therapy
- Avoid foods that are hard in texture or crunchy to bite
The tooth structure is usually weak after a root canal treatment. Chewing or biting foods that are hard in texture or crunchy using the treated tooth may crack, break or chip it. The foods can also damage the temporary filling used on the tooth, exposing the roots to re-infection. Wait until the dentist has fully refurbished the tooth before consuming such foods.
- What to drink and avoid: can I drink soda after a root canal?
The root canal procedure may leave you thirsty ad tired. You may need a drink that will boost your blood sugar levels. Yes, you can take soda after the operation but limit the amount since soda is not good for your teeth. You should also brush and rinse your mouth with water right after.
This gets rid of the sugar and chemicals left in the mouth. It also brings the PH levels of your mouth to normal. When the PH levels are normal, it will be difficult for oral microbial to thrive and cause infections. Also, avoid alcoholic drinks as they will disrupt recovery.
Chewing food will be difficult after the procedure. Therefore, you may opt for a diet full of liquids. The dentist recommends taking soups, broth, yoghurt, and smoothies. It is because they are nutritious and filling. However, avoid hot drinks as they may irritate the treated site and delay healing.
- What and how to eat
When you leave the dental offices after a root canal, your mouth will remain numb for a few hours. This is due to the anesthetics used to prevent pain during the procedure. Do not eat until the numbness wears off as you may bite on your tongue, lips, or inner cheek. Waiting also allows the temporary filling to harden. When ready to eat, choose soft, easy-to-chew foods.
Avoid hot and spicy foods because they irritate the wound and interfere with a blood clot. Chew slowly to avoid further strain on your mouth since the mouth is tender. Use the side opposite the treated tooth to chew food until the tenderness and discomfort ease. Doing so will help the inflammation to decrease faster and promote healing.
- Medication
Immediately after the procedure, you will not feel pain due to the anesthetics used. However, after wearing off, you will experience tenderness and mild soreness. It will continue for a few days after the procedure, easing slowly. Your dentist will prescribe some medicine for these temporary symptoms. You will also require antibiotics to eliminate the infection.
It is crucial to follow the instructions given by your dentist concerning medications. If the medicines do not work as required, do not overdose. Instead, contact the dentist in Youngtown for a stronger prescription. Exercise caution when operating machinery or driving after taking narcotics. They make one drowsy and impair judgment.
- Observing oral hygiene
Poor oral hygiene may have been the biggest contributor to needing a root canal. Therefore, you should observe proper oral hygiene after the procedure to avoid re-infection. In addition, do not neglect flossing or brushing your teeth daily. It will prevent future root canal infections.
When brushing, take special care around the recently treated tooth. Move the brush in gentle circling motions to avoid aggravating your teeth. Use tooth floss that will slide easily between teeth to avoid dislodging the temporary filling. You should schedule regular cleanings at Agua Fria Dental to keep your teeth healthy.
When to Contact a Dentist After a Root Canal
Contact the dentist at the dental offices where you had the root canal therapy when:
- You experience pain or pressure lasting more than a few days
- There is visible swelling outside or inside your mouth
- Your bite feels odd
- The temporary filling or crown comes out
- You have an allergic reaction to the prescribed medicine