How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?

So your dentist suggested that you get a root canal treatment. Do you know what this procedure is? Do you have worries about going through it? These anxieties are understandable. After all, this is an invasive procedure that might involve extracting the affected tooth. However, you do not have to worry too much. For as long as you are in the hands of a good and qualified dentist, your root canal procedure should be a success. Read on to learn more about this common dental treatment.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

The decay causes bacteria to eat away the tooth enamel, which weakens it in the process. This reduces the protection between the tooth nerves and the outside environment. Left untreated, advanced decay affects the blood vessels, nerves, and tissues of the teeth, leading to an infection. Once the infection reaches the pulp and tooth root, a root canal treatment is needed to remove the infection and prevent other consequences like tooth loss. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective procedure that eliminates infection and maintains teeth quality.

How Does Root Canal Treatment Work?

Root canal therapy is recommended when no other treatment can save an infected tooth. If the dental pulp or soft tissue in the tooth center becomes infected, this procedure becomes a necessity. During the treatment, the dentist will first administer sedation to numb the mouth before creating an opening in the top of the tooth to remove the infected pulp. After this, the inside of the tooth is dried and filled with a bio-compatible substance before it is closed. Finally, the dentist will apply a dental filling or install a dental crown to protect the tooth.

Generally, root canal therapy lasts for about 30 to 90 minutes and can be done in a single visit to the dentist. The various variables can affect the length of the treatment. This can include the severity of the root canal infection; the location of the affected tooth; and if the tooth requires permanent filling or a crown later.

Root Canal Treatment Recovery Period

In most cases, it only takes a few days for a patient to recover from a root canal procedure. Immediately after, they may feel some soreness or irritation for the first 48 hours. To manage this, the dentist will likely prescribe over-the-counter pain medication. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help address these issues while assisting in a speedy and smooth recovery. While recovering, it is still important to practice your oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing. Never chew or apply pressure on the treated tooth until the filling or crown is installed.

There are a few symptoms you need to watch out for after getting root canal therapy. Visit your dentist immediately if you feel an uncomfortable bite; swelling that does not recede after one or two days; the pre-treatment pain and swelling in the gums have not subsided; and if the temporary filling comes out.

Tips for Faster Healing and Recovery

Do not chew or drink hot food items until the anesthetic has worn off completely.
Take the prescribed pain medications and follow dentist recommendations.
Favor the side of the mouth that has gone through the treatment for a few days.
Go back to the dentist for a permanent restoration to avoid re-infection.
Avoid anything that can cause inflammation, like alcohol or spicy foods.
Call your dentist if you have any questions or concerns.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or have other symptoms that point to a possible need for root canal therapy, schedule an appointment with a reputable dentist in your area today. They will assess you and figure out the best treatment option for you. If a root canal is indeed necessary, rest assured that you will go through a simple and efficient procedure with quick and seamless healing under the hands of a skilled professional.

About Castle Hills Dentistry:

Castle Hills Dentistry offers high-quality dental services in The Colony, measuring their success by getting 100% satisfaction among their clients. They bring affordable dental care for the whole family. Castle Hills Dentistry offers value, care, consistency, trust, and unmatched passion.