Root canal procedures may seem scary at first, but with modern advances in techniques and medications, most patients experience only mild pain after treatment. The procedure involves deep cleaning inside the canal to treat the infected pulp. Doing so irritates the surrounding nerves and gums. The purpose of this treatment is to help avoid any further pain in a decaying or fractured tooth. To alleviate the discomfort of a root canal, follow the simple do’s and don’ts below. 

Do:

Brush and floss gently.

Make sure to brush your teeth gently in a circular motion so that you don’t aggravate the affected tooth. Take your time to floss as much as you can without forcing it. Flossing daily helps to fight future infections.

Manage pain.

Feel free to treat discomfort with pain relievers as you and your dentist see fit. Over-the-counter drugs can help reduce swelling and pain temporarily so you can eat and feel comfortable during the first few days after the procedure.

Don’t:

Eat hard foods.

Avoid eating hard or chewy foods for a few days after the root canal. Hard foods increase the risk of damage to the temporary filling, and chewy food can pull at the filling. Choose soft foods and soups that you can swallow without a lot of chewing.

Drink alcohol and eat spicy foods.

Avoid food and drinks that increase sensitivity and cause more discomfort, such as alcohol, spicy food, and extremely hot or cold food. Since it is a wound that is open and healing, doing so can lead to unnecessary pain. Alcohol consumption could cause bleeding, as well.

If you need a root canal treatment or general dentistry services in East Honolulu, HI, turn to the professional dental team at Aina Haina Dental Group, Inc. Dr. Keith W. Morikawa, DDS, has provided expert restorative care since 1976 and was granted the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s “Best Dentist” award in 2009. To take control of your oral health, call (808) 373-2184 or visit their website today.