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Fortunately for today’s dental patients, a root canal is not the uncomfortable experience it once was. Your dentist or endodontist will send you home with some instructions for taking care of your tooth after the procedure and to minimize any temporary discomfort you may have. Here’s what to expect after you receive this treatment.

When the numbness from the local anesthesia wears off, your mouth may feel tender for a few days. Your jaw may also feel sore from keeping your mouth open for an extended period during the procedure. This, discomfort typically responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Stronger medication can sometimes be prescribed if necessary.

Your dentist’s office will want you to call immediately if you experience pain or pressure lasting more than a few days, visible swelling in or around your mouth, or any signs of an allergic reaction, like a rash or itching. Although your treated tooth may feel slightly different than your other teeth for a while, call your dentist if the bite feels very uneven, as this can cause stress on your jaw or other teeth and prevent proper chewing of food or impair digestion. If you received a temporary crown or filling and it comes out, call your dentist right away.

root canalAs with any dental treatment, wait until after your mouth is no longer numb to eat to avoid biting your tongue or cheek. Don’t bite down hard on the treated tooth until after you have received a permanent crown and the restoration of the tooth is complete. You should brush your teeth as normal and floss around your other teeth to keep your mouth clean.

Schedule any necessary follow-up appointments as soon as possible to finish the restoration with a permanent crown. If you care for the treated tooth correctly, it should last for years without requiring additional work. 

 

Whether you or your family members need a root canal or an annual exam, trust the professionals at Coulee Family Dental in La Crosse, WI. Call (608) 782-3102 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services and treatment options.

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