Root canals may seem scary, but they’re safe procedures that have been done for decades to provide relief to teeth that are infected or damaged. What’s more, root canals are a better option to save your natural teeth after they’re badly infected rather than being extracted. However, what is the recovery period like, and do you need to take several days off work?
Keep reading to learn what to expect when recovering from a root canal in Boynton Beach!
Avoid Strenuous Activity
For a few days after your root canal, it’s important that you rest as much as possible and avoid strenuous activity. Swelling and pain around the treated tooth are normal, and you can alleviate some pain by elevating your head when you sleep or lay down.
Mild to Moderate Pain
When the anesthetic around the treated tooth wears off, it’s normal to feel pain and discomfort in your jaw and gums. Take over-the-counter pain medication to treat the pain, or your dentist may have prescribed anti-inflammatory pain medication. You can also press a cold compress to the side of your cheek where the treated tooth is to help numb the area.
Avoid Inflammation
Lastly, it’s important to avoid anything that could cause inflammation. This can include smoking, drinking alcohol or hot beverages, biting into hard foods, or eating foods that require a lot of chewing. To help with pain and inflammation, we also recommend rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater. This has the added benefit of keeping the area clean and avoiding infection.
Do You Need a Root Canal in Boynton Beach?
If you’re experiencing throbbing pain in your tooth that seems to only get worse, a root canal may be the best solution for you. We’ll prepare you on what to expect before, during, and after procedure. Fortunately, the procedure is quick and efficient, and after a few days of rest, your life can return to normal.
Ready to learn more about getting a root canal in Boynton Beach? Contact us today!