Why is Root Canal Aftercare Important?

Have you ever wondered what happens after a root canal? What kind of aftercare is necessary to ensure you won’t experience signs you might need root canal treatment again? Dr. Drew Boyd at Urgent Dental of Denver offers comprehensive root canal aftercare to help prevent further discomfort and possible extraction of infected teeth. Although patients are mostly responsible for post-root canal care, Dr. Boyd utilizes advanced dental appliances and techniques to safeguard tooth health after a root canal.

5 Facts About Root Canal Aftercare

Root Canal Aftercare Involves Placement of a Temporary Filling

A root canal involves Dr. Boyd removing the infected inner pulp of the tooth. After cleaning the inner tooth cavity, the dentist fills the cavity with a temporary filling to protect the tooth. Temporary fillings contain ingredients that reduce inflammation, promote healing, and alleviate nerve pain.

The Temporary Filling is Removed During the Follow-up Appointment

Dr. Boyd will remove the temporary filling during your second appointment and place a dental crown over the tooth. Porcelain crowns fit over the tooth like a tight cap to prevent decay, fractures, and other damage. Crowns also improve the appearance of a tooth after a root canal, reinforce the tooth’s structure, and conceal any discoloration caused by the root canal. 

Root Canal Aftercare Includes Pain Management

While some discomfort is normal for a few days after a root canal, persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by the dentist to determine the cause of the discomfort. The intensive cleaning process involved in removing pulp can irritate surrounding gums and nerves in the gums. Depending on the severity of the pain, Dr. Boyd will prescribe pain medication or recommend Tylenol or ibuprofen to be taken as needed.

Oral Hygiene is an Essential Part of Root Canal Aftercare

Dr. Boyd will provide detailed instructions about how to brush the tooth, what kind of rinse to use, and what foods and beverages to avoid after a root canal. Since most root canals are done on molars and premolars, chewing hard, crunchy, and sticky foods is strongly discouraged until your dentist determines recovery is complete.

Root Canals Can Last Many Years

The final stage of root canal aftercare involves Dr. Boyd cementing permanent dental crowns onto the treated tooth. Crowns are cemented onto teeth with dental adhesive that takes about 48 to 72 hours to dry fully. After this time, you should be able to eat or drink your favorite foods without worrying about dislodging the crown.

When performed by a skilled dentist like Dr. Boyd, a root canal will not need further treatment for as long as a lifetime. Factors determining a root canal’s longevity include maintaining good oral hygiene, getting regular dental check-ups, and following root canal aftercare instructions.

Call Urgent Care Dental in Denver, Colorado, to Book an Appointment Today

If you are unsure about the signs you might need a root canal, don’t hesitate to call our office at (720) 573-2629.

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