Root canal treatment is one of the dental treatments which create a sense of dilemma in the minds of many patients, not because of their personal experiences, but due to fear that they have after listening to the stories from people. In fact Root Canal Treatment is a major dental procedure that is done on a day to day basis in various Dental setups. There can be a possibility of residual pain in the treated after the completion of procedure. However, it does not mean that the pain will last forever. It just takes some time for the body to settle in as the mouth adapts to the new changes.
When the word root canal is introduced to you by your dentists, the major concern is “what is the procedure of root canal? “and “how long does it take to recover and heal from a root canal treatment ?”
Not to worry, we will help you understand some of the basic information that will be a great help for you to prepare mentally and physically for your upcoming root canal procedure.
With the advancement in technology and medical science being progressed, today’s root canals are much easier, comfortable, and comparatively less or not at all painful those of previous generations. Therefore, personal stories from older generations about their experiences of having painful root canal treatment have become obsolete with time.
To know in detail about the root canal and its treatment, let’s start with our understanding of the cause for the need of Root Canal treatment.
What are the symptoms that are a sign that YOU NEED A ROOT CANAL?
The main and the most common symptom is that the patient experiences discomfort as well as persistent pain in that particular tooth. Sometimes, that discomfort or uneasiness is in the affected tooth area, and it may be in the form of referred pain in other areas of your jaw and face.
The second important symptom that is examined and observed may include discomfort when biting, chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperature and even tooth discolouration. Even in cases there can be sudden increase in the pain in that particular tooth on lying down. These are important symptoms when you must book an appointment.
In some cases, your dentist will also suggest you consult an endodontic specialist. These specialists are the dentists who aim to focus on the health of the pulp and membrane within the teeth, sensitivity in the veins and tissues surrounding the teeth.
The best and only way to know about the emergency of root canal treatment or surgery is to consult your dentist, speak to them about your actual problem and go for a thorough examination.
Managing the Recovering from a Root Canal
It is easier to recover from root canal treatment due to advancements in technology and medical sciences. Also, painless root canal treatment, an advanced treatment, is paving its way with great popularity. Endodontists advise using pain-relieving procedures and measures to ensure that patients are comfortable and help recover from the intense pain during the dental procedure and can recover speedily and easily afterwards.
Once the local anaesthesia is given to you for instant pain relief and avoiding discomfort, it helps you avoid the major problem and fear of your mind.
However, you may experience some form of soreness and sensitivity, often due to the cleaning process of the canals within the tooth. However, the soreness may continue to prevail and trouble you for a few days after your procedure. To cope with this, your dentist may prescribe and help you deal with the pain with simple exercises and over-the-counter pain medications to reduce the pain and discomfort in the initial days after treatment.
Overall, it will take a little time and a few days to recover and become normal and adjusted after the root canal treatment. However, any pain that stretches or exceeds severely after the dental proceedings could signify some issue or a problem for which immediate consultation is needed. Some patients may also need more than one cleaning of the canals for a successful root canal.
Most patients are prescribed over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or generic Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen to eliminate and reduce the discomfort.
If you feel or experience any unusual or unexpected swelling, pain, or concerning symptoms that are difficult to be helped with pain relievers, contact your dental team or endodontist immediately.
Tips to ensure good care of your Tooth after a Root Canal
After your dentist has performed your Root Canal Treatment the following are some tips on which you need to focus for a better, easy and quick recovery. It means being intentional and taking care with awareness about managing and monitoring your oral care. If you ensure your procedure is done properly, you should be fully healed in under a week. Some tips to help you cope up and take care of your tooth after a root canal may include:
- For pain killers, your dentist may prescribe you pain medicines for severe pain, such as Non Steoidal Anti- Inflammatory Drugs like Ibuprofen or Paracetamol that will get you to feel better.
- Patients should strictly avoid chewing and crushing hard foods as it will only make things difficult and harder for them.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene. Regular cleaning, flossing, and brushing is crucially important for your dental care.
- Stay in touch with your dentist if you feel like your recovery is taking a lot of time.
- Ensure you use proper brushing techniques like a gentle circling motion when you brush. If unsure, ask your dentist or hygienist to make you clear and teach you a proper pattern to brush.
- Floss regularly to avoid gum inflammation and infection.
- Try to avoid acidic and extra sugary foods and drinks.
- Ensure you follow and accept the recommended and advised professional cleaning and examination schedule.
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