How To Care For Your Mouth After A Root Canal Procedure?

Root canal procedure is one of the most common dental surgeries and the most painful and critical surgery. It relieves the patient from a toothache, tooth decay, or damaged tooth. 

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

If you have had a root canal treatment, you may wonder how to take care of it. Here are some tips on how to take care of your teeth after a root canal procedure:

Brush & Floss Gently

Taking care of the operated area after the surgery is crucial. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle strokes to clean the teeth. Avoid being rough with the teeth, as it can put pressure on the tooth.

Rinse The Mouth

Practicing cleanliness is essential after a root canal procedure. There is a high potential of bacteria getting into the wound as it is fresh. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with a cup of lukewarm water. Rinse your mouth with this solution several times daily for three days after surgery.

Eat Soft Foods

There is a special diet you have to follow after getting dental procedures. Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods. These foods can displace the temporary crown, which leaves your nerves exposed to infection. The best foods after a root canal procedure are:

• Applesauce
• Mashed potatoes
• Oatmeal
• Smooth soups and broth
• Smoothies and fresh fruit juice
• Yogurt, etc.

Make sure the food you eat is nutritious and lukewarm. Extreme temperatures can cause sensitivity issues on the treated site.

Wear Mouthguards

Putting pressure on the root canal can cause pain and sometimes even bleeding. Patients should chew from the opposite side of their mouth to restrict additional stress. Wearing mouthguards can help you with this problem. Mouthguards reduce the impact of biting and grinding and protect the teeth after getting dental restorations. 

What Needs To Happen Immediately After A Root Canal?

Although a root canal ultimately means less pain, you’ll likely feel some tenderness in the immediate aftermath of the procedure. Your jaw may also be sore from opening your mouth for a longer time.

The pain following a root canal is typically treated successfully with over-the-counter medications. Still, in some instances, your dentist may prescribe a stronger medication.

Suppose you’re waiting on another procedure, such as a filling or crown. In that case, avoiding chewing when the tooth is being repaired is better. Your dentist will instruct you as to whether or not this applies to your situation.

Don’t Eat Until The Numbness Wears Off

The effects of local anesthesia stay sometime after the root canal surgery. Wait until the numbness in your mouth wears off before eating, so you don’t bite your cheek or tongue. To avoid damaging the treated tooth, avoid chewing or biting on it until a dentist has fully restored it. Remember to brush and floss daily to keep the operation area clean and prevent infection.

The Bottom Line

Taking care of your teeth and mouth after a root canal surgery is as important as caring for your surgical site. Minor bleeding after surgery is normal. However, you should visit the dentist in emergencies like excessive bleeding. Always take care of your dental health to keep your root canal safe.