During a root canal, the mouth is numbed and infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth. A dentist will also clean and disinfect the area before filling and sealing it. The procedure is fairly simple, but aftercare is important to encourage healing and manage discomfort. Use the following guide to learn how you can keep your mouth healthy following a root canal.
How to Care for Your Teeth Following a Root Canal
1. Brush and Floss Carefully
Keeping the treated area clean prevents infection, so you should gently brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. When food gets stuck in the gaps between the teeth, it can lead to bacterial growth if it's not removed. Be gentle when brushing the affected tooth, and floss slowly but thoroughly around any fillings or crowns that were put in place during the root canal. Be sure to follow your dentist's recommendations regarding brushing and flossing around the tooth having the procedure.
2. Gargle With Salt Water
Following a root canal, you need to care for the gum tissue surrounding the tooth that underwent the procedure. Gargle with a solution of warm water and salt about three times a day to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Dissolve about 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the mixture around your mouth for one minute, and spit it out into the sink. Do three one-minute gargles in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening.
3. Watch What You Eat
Soft foods, such as bananas and oatmeal, are good snacks to eat after a dental procedure. Don't eat hard items that can put pressure on the area or foods that have extreme temperatures, such as cold ice cream or boiling hot soup. If your dentist placed a crown on a tooth following a root canal, they might ask you to avoid chewing with that tooth for up to a day. Consult with your dental team and follow their advice to ensure your recovery is quick and smooth.
If you're looking for an experienced, trustworthy dentist to conduct a root canal procedure, reach out to Hulse Dental in Onalaska, WI. This office has over 25 years of experience serving individuals of all ages throughout the Coulee Region. Their team ensures every patient receives the highest quality oral care available. They provide expert dental services for your entire family using state-of-the-art equipment. Whether you need crowns, implants, Invisalign®, or teeth whitening, they can help you achieve a beautiful smile. Call Dr. Hulse & Dr. Case at (608) 783-1306 to make an appointment, or visit HulseDental.com website for more information about the practice.