Tips for Root Canal Aftercare
If you are about to go in for a root canal, you might be interested in learning how to properly caring for yourself after you are home. With the following tips, you should have no problem ensuring that you are as comfortable and healthy as possible after this major dental procedure.
Properly Treat The Pain
It is important to realize that there is a good chance that the tooth with the root canal will be sore and sensitive after the procedure. The length of time that you will have to deal with a little pain will be dependent on your level of pain tolerance and how bad of shape your tooth was in before the work was done. Some dentists may prescribe pain medication. Others will have you count on over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen. If this is what you were asked to take and the stated dosage on the bottle is not giving you much relief, you can contact your dentist for further assistance. This might be the point where you are offered something a little stronger.
Take All Of Your Antibiotics
When you receive a root canal, you run the risk of developing an infection. It is because of this that many dentists will simply prescribe you an antibiotic right from the beginning in order to prevent such problems. If you decide that you are not taking that medication or finishing the entire bottle as prescribed, you run the risk of developing a major infection that could land you in the hospital if it got too out of control.
Be Careful Cleaning The Tooth At Home
You have to resume your normal brushing and flossing of the rest of the teeth in your mouth. However, until your dentist has finished with the final filling, you will want to be extra careful with that one tooth. Refrain from flossing while you still have the temporary filling. When brushing, do so gently so that you are not putting a lot of pressure on it. After your dentist has applied the final filling, you can slowly resume the normal cleaning of that tooth as your pain level allows for it. As your mouth heals, you will be able to put more and more pressure on the tooth.
With the previously mentioned tips in mind, you should have no trouble getting through the aftercare of a root canal with ease. For assistance, tlak to a professional like Baker Allan DDS.