{"id":56,"date":"2024-10-18T14:01:39","date_gmt":"2024-10-18T14:01:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.elwoodavenuedental.com\/blog\/?p=56"},"modified":"2025-07-07T20:04:02","modified_gmt":"2025-07-07T20:04:02","slug":"recovering-after-your-root-canal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.elwoodavenuedental.com\/blog\/recovering-after-your-root-canal\/","title":{"rendered":"Root Canal Recovery: What Happens Next?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Root canals often make patients anxious, even at the mention of it, but it\u2019s an essential treatment to save your tooth and relieve pain. The procedure itself feels more like getting a filling, but there can be some soreness afterward. If you\u2019re wondering what recovery from a root canal<\/a> looks like, continue reading. You\u2019ll learn what to expect and how to care for your tooth to ensure a smooth healing process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Day One Numbness and Discomfort<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The first day after your root canal will likely be the most difficult. For one, you\u2019ll likely still feel numb from the anesthetic. This should wear off after a few hours. However, once the numbness fades, you might experience mild discomfort or soreness in the treated area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If your dentist prescribed medication, be sure to take it as directed to stay comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eating and Drinking After a Root Canal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You may be able to eat and drink soon after the procedure but be cautious! Wait until the numbness completely wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Once you\u2019re ready to chow down, stick to soft foods and avoid anything crunchy, sticky, or hard that could irritate the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You should also minimize the amount of ice or heat you apply to anything you drink. The treated tooth might be sensitive to pressure and temperature for a couple of days as it recovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caring for Your Treated Tooth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your dentist will likely place a temporary filling or crown over your tooth until a permanent restoration can be crafted. During this time, the tooth will be more vulnerable to bacteria, so oral hygiene is vitally important. So, keep up with your oral care routine by gently brushing and flossing carefully around the treated tooth. It\u2019s a good idea to also consider adding an antibacterial mouthwash or saltwater rinse to your routine to further reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When to Call Your Dentist During Root Canal Recovery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While mild soreness is normal, certain symptoms may point to a problem! Contact your dentist right away if you notice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n