A root canal is a dental treatment designed to repair a badly damaged or infected tooth. Any dentist will tell you that while this valuable treatment can save a tooth, it can also be a painful process. By taking the appropriate aftercare steps following your root canal, you can minimize discomfort—and ensure that you get the best results from your treatment. Here, Dental Clinic of Onalaska in Wisconsin gives you their top five essential aftercare tips. 

A Dentist’s 5 Tips For Root Canal Aftercare

1. Brush & Floss As Usual

You will experience tenderness around the area of your root canal in the days following the procedure. Although it may be tempting to avoid touching your mouth, you should maintain regular oral hygiene habits.

2. Avoid Hot Drinks

Hot beverages, including tea and coffee, can exacerbate the sensitivity of the treated area. Also, avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 48 hours following the procedure (or longer, if you are still taking painkillers or other medications that can interact poorly with the alcohol).

3. Don’t Use The Tooth

You will be given a numbing agent to get you through the root canal procedure; don’t eat anything until the numbness has worn off to avoid a painful bite to the tongue or cheek. In the days that follow, avoid chewing or biting using the side of your mouth with the treated tooth.  

4. Take Medication As Prescribed

Your oral health professional may prescribe painkillers, antibiotics, or other medications, as needed, following your root canal. Be sure to take any drugs as prescribed.

5. Contact Your Dentist As Needed

If you see visible swelling, call your dentist immediately—this can indicate an infection. Also, make sure to contact them if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

Every patient is unique and the experience you have following your root canal is not going to be identical to anybody else’s. Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your case—it’s important to always follow these.

If you are seeking dental care, look to the Dental Clinic of Onalaska. From root canals to dental implants, veneers, and more, these dental professionals offer an array of treatments. Visit their website or call (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment.