If you have an upcoming appointment for a root canal, there are several ways you can make your aftercare easier. Whether it is understanding the effects of pain medications or knowing how to care for your teeth right after the treatment, Dr. Michael L. Kinsley, D.M.D., strives to have patients feeling better faster with his guide to post-procedure care.  

3 Root Canal Aftercare Tips 

1. Bite/Chew Lightly 

After you leave the dentist’s office, you may be hungry. However, avoid snacking until the numbness from the oral anesthesia wears off. This will keep you from biting your cheek or tongue and making aftercare more difficult. In addition, do not bite down around the root canal tooth until your dentist says it’s okay.

While tenderness may cause you to eat or drink more carefully than usual, you can brush and floss your teeth normally. Contact your dentist if you have any question about pain or symptoms you are experiencing. 

2. Rest

Pain after treatment does not typically last long and responds well to most over-the-counter pain medications. If you are prescribed narcotics for your pain, allow yourself time to rest and avoid driving. Ask your dentist or pharmacist if you have any questions, especially if you are taking other medicines. 

3. Know When to Call 

It is important to know what symptoms are normal and what warrants a call to your dentist’s office. If you feel nauseous from pain medication or tender for a few days after your treatment, this is expected. 

However, if you notice swelling on the inside or outside of your mouth, develop a rash or hives after taking pain medications, or feel the same discomfort you felt before the root canal, call your dentist right away.  

With these aftercare tips, recovery is simpler. To make an appointment to discuss a root canal with your local dentist, call Dr. Michael L. Kinsley, D.M.D., in Perry, GA, at (478) 987-1441. To take their free smile analysis, visit the practice’s website.