What Happens After Having a Root Canal Done?

Having a root canal done can significantly improve a person’s oral and dental health. While it is a relatively simple procedure, there is important information to be aware of after the fact, such as levels of pain, the healing process and any follow-up procedures or steps.

Preparing for a root canal? In this article, we discuss what happens after the procedure is over. This information may be helpful to someone who is not sure what to expect afterward. 

What happens after having a root canal?

Once a root canal procedure is complete, there are a few important things to be aware of. Below, we outline them!

Pain

One of the main things that occurs after a root canal is pain. Most patients experience some sort of pain where the root canal took place, as well as around the area. The dentist can administer pain management such as cold packs or medication

Pain typically lasts for a few days once the root canal procedure is done. Patients can use over-the-counter medication to ease any discomfort. Using ice packs and avoiding eating hard things can also help during the healing process.

Dental crown placement

What also happens after root canal placement is typically a dental crown procedure. While this is not 100% mandatory, almost every dentist recommends it. Having a dental crown placed over the tooth will help ensure that it heals appropriately, while also protecting the rest of the mouth from infection.

More often than not, the dentist will place a temporary dental crown immediately after the root canal takes place. The temporary crown will protect the area until after significant healing, when the permanent one can be placed. Permanent crowns must be custom-created in a dental lab to specifically fit the patient’s tooth, which can take time.

Healing

Aside from pain, the patient will have to undergo a healing process that can last anywhere from a few days to a week or so. The healing process usually consists of taking a break from work, school or anything strenuous. Dentists typically recommend a great deal of rest, as well as adjusting to a different diet for a few days. Avoiding chewing on anything too hard can help the tooth heal after the root canal.

Follow-up appointment

Finally, after a root canal, the patient will need to make another appointment with their dentist. This will be a quick check-up to ensure that the tooth is healing and that the crown fits well. Any adjustments or concerns can be addressed and attended to in the follow-up appointment to ensure that the root canal process is complete.

Contact us today!

If you have further questions about what happens after a root canal, then reach out to our office so we can help you. Our dentists would be happy to go over the procedure in depth so you know what to expect. Give us a call or stop by today!

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.

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