06
Jul
What You Should Know About Root Canal AfterCare
During a root canal, your dentist removes the pulp and nerve inside the tooth, replacing them with a cement-like mixture that stabilizes and strengthens the tooth. A successful root canal will last for many years, preventing tooth loss and preserving your smile. Dr. Brian Orcutt of Orcutt Family Dentistry in Fair Oaks, California, recommends root canals if a tooth has received significant damage due to decay or injury. Understanding root canal aftercare is a must.
How should you prepare for a root canal?
You will want to dress in comfortable clothing for your root canal appointment. Sweats and a loose-fitting shirt will keep you warm and allow you to move without restrictions. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before your appointment. It is also essential that you do not eat or drink anything for at least two hours before your procedure. You will be sitting with your mouth open for a long period. Avoiding food and beverages before your appointment will reduce your risk of getting sick.
How long will it take for your root canal to heal?
While the initial healing process may only take a few days, the material used to fill your tooth will take much longer to cure completely. Your dentist may put a temporary crown in place for four to six weeks to ensure your tooth is healed. Once everything has healed properly, your dentist will replace the temporary crown with a permanent one.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (916) 963-9986 | Existing Patients: (916) 961-8454
Schedule an Appointment
What are the signs of a failed root canal?
There are rare cases where a root canal procedure fails. While this doesn’t occur often, it can happen, especially in teeth that have oddly shaped roots. If a root canal isn’t healing properly, there will be signs to watch for. Extreme pain, tooth sensitivity, and discomfort in the gums and soft tissues are common signs. The area may also be warm to the touch if an infection isn’t present.
How do you take care of a root canal?
Once a temporary or permanent crown is in place, you will care for the root canal much like you would any other dental procedure. Keep the area as clean as possible and monitor it for any signs of infection. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, use mouthwash several times a day to keep the growth of bacteria to a minimum.
Why are root canals needed?
A root canal is needed to save a tooth if a cavity is too large to be repaired with a filling. Removing the root and pulp can reduce pain and discomfort. Attaching a crown prevents further damage to the tooth and helps improve the mouth’s integrity.
When should you visit the dentist again?
Once your procedure is finished, your dentist will provide aftercare instructions for your root canal. If the procedure went smoothly, your next appointment may be three or four weeks out. If you begin to feel any type of discomfort, you will need to schedule your appointment right away. New patients should call (916) 963-9986 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Brian Orcutt of Orcutt Family Dentistry in Fair Oaks, CA, can help with your root canal aftercare! Call as soon as you can!
