A Guide to Self-Care After a Root Canal

Posted on 7/1/2024 by Premier Dental

3D rendered cross-section view of a tooth and its roots

Many people have a negative viewpoint of root canals, but in actuality, they can eliminate tooth pain and save an infected tooth. If you are going to be having a root canal procedure soon, there are some things you can do at home to make sure you recover as quickly as possible. Here are some tips for self-care after you undergo a root canal procedure.

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canals are the most effective way to treat an infected tooth. Most teeth become infected when a cavity reaches the tooth pulp (the middle of the tooth). The middle of your tooth is soft and full of blood vessels and nerves, which is probably why you have been feeling pain in that tooth. When your tooth pulp gets infected, you need direct intervention to cure the infection and save the tooth.

In a root canal procedure, our dentist usually makes an incision in the top of your tooth to access the tooth pulp. They then remove the tooth pulp and fill the middle of your tooth with antibiotics and composite to eliminate the infection. The final step is when our dentist places a crown over your tooth to protect it against any further damage.

Caring for Your Tooth After the Root Canal Procedure

If you are going to have a root canal, there are some ways you can help the tooth and yourself heal. First, be gentle with your tooth. Do not try to chew food close to your tooth, and stick to soft foods for a day or so after your root canal procedure.

Second, while a lot of people experience relief from pain after a root canal, you may feel some pain or discomfort. You may want to take over-the-counter pain relievers and use ice packs to reduce your discomfort and inflammation.

Finally, if you start experiencing severe pain, you begin running a fever, or you feel a bump or a bulge close to your root canal, you need to give our dentist a call right away.

Not sure if you need a root canal? We can help. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.

Bells
Office

(731) 663-9999

7019 US-412
Bells, TN 38006

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

Jackson
Office

(731) 300-3000

80 Exeter Rd
Jackson, TN 38305

Hours:
Mon: 7am - 7pm
Tue: 7am - 7pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: 8am - 3pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

Milan
Office

(731) 613-2800

14029 S 1st St
Milan, TN 38358

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

Lexington Office

(731) 617-9818

689 W Church St, Lexington, TN 38351

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: Closed
Sat & Sun: Closed

About | Premier Dental Center - Bells, Jackson, & Milan, TN
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Premier Dental, 80 Exeter Rd, Jackson, TN 38305 - 731-300-3000 - premdent.com - 12/20/2024 - Key Phrases: Dentist Bells Jackson Milan Lexington -