If it’s your first time having a root canal, you may be wondering what to expect. While dental professionals typically provide comprehensive aftercare instructions for their patients, you may wish to familiarize yourself with the recovery process in advance.

Here, the leading dentist in Enterprise, AL, William B. Collier Jr., DMD, and his staff share some information about what you can expect following a root canal:

• Slight Discomfort: You may have heard stories about patients feeling pain following the procedure, but in fact, the majority of patients don’t experience significant discomfort. According to a 2014 study, 57% of patients reported no pain afterward, and of those who did, the majority said it was mild. If you experience pain, ask the dentist about taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

• Limited Chewing: Following the procedure, there may be an interval of time before the crown or permanent filling is inserted. During this period, it’s wise to limit chewing on the affected side to keep the vulnerable tooth safe. Once the permanent solution is inserted, however, you may resume normal chewing after any numbness, sensitivity, or discomfort wears off.
• A Natural Appearance: When both the root canal and the restoration are complete, the affected tooth will be virtually impossible to detect. Because today’s crowns and resins are tooth-colored, most restorative dental solutions are completely natural looking.
• Resuming Daily Life: You can return to work or other daily activities following the procedure. Don’t forget to continue brushing and flossing as you normally would, too.
• Pain-Free Oral Wellness: Root canals are a powerful solution because they remove compromised material, often without sacrificing the integrity of the tooth. In the majority of cases, the treatment provides a lifelong solution. One study confirms 93% of patients experienced success for at least 10 years following the procedure. Most importantly, it prevents the spread of infection, which could lead to bone loss if left untreated, and keeps patients healthy and pain-free.

If you need a root canal, the gentle staff at the office of William B. Collier Jr., DMD will provide you with as comfortable an experience as possible. To put your dental care in their attentive, careful hands, call (334) 347-5026. You can also visit their website or like them on Facebook for further information.