What To Know Before, During, And After A Root Canal
What are the warning signs of infection?
If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact us today to schedule an appointment. A tooth infection can be serious and require root canal treatment, as well as antibiotics. Warning signs of tooth infection can include:
- Severe toothache or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of the affected tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swelling of the face or neck
What’s involved during a root canal?
The root canal procedure treats an infected or damaged tooth by removing the affected tissue from inside the tooth. The procedure is typically performed by a dentist or endodontist, who will numb the area around the tooth to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. The procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the severity of the infection or damage.
Post-treatment care
After a root canal, it’s normal to experience some soreness for a few days. To help with the discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. It’s important to keep the area clean, so be sure to brush and floss your teeth carefully. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the root canal was done, and try to stick to soft foods for a few days. You should also avoid using tobacco products, as they can irritate the area and slow down the healing process. If you have any concerns or experience severe pain, be sure to contact our office or your primary dentist.
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