A root canal in Federal Way, WA, is a dental procedure that is used to repair a tooth that is badly decayed, infected, damaged, or dead. During the procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
The day after your root canal in Federal Way, WA, you’ll likely be feeling much better and probably won’t experience much pain at all. If a patient experiences sensitivity after getting a root canal treatment, talk to your dentist about prescription pain medications that can help control any discomfort as the tooth heals. However, it’s important to follow these tips:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
After you undergo a root canal in Federal Way, WA, you’ll need to practice good oral hygiene habits to ensure the treated tooth stays healthy. Since the nerve has been removed, you can’t feel anything in that area of your mouth. As a result, you may have some difficulty detecting food particles and plaque buildup. You may brush too hard or miss certain areas. These issues can lead to cavities and other oral health problems.
Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure you thoroughly rinse your mouth. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria in your mouth and promote healing.
See Your Dentist in Federal Way, WA
Visit your dentist in Federal Way, WA, immediately if you experience any difficulties like increased pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever. These symptoms may indicate that the treatment was unsuccessful. In some cases, emergency dental treatment is necessary to prevent the loss of the tooth.
If you experience these symptoms, contact your dentist right away.
A Healthy Diet
Unless you are advised otherwise, continue eating a healthy diet after root canal treatment. Avoid hard foods that can irritate your gums, such as ice, popcorn kernels, peanuts, and raw vegetables. Don’t bite or chew on anything inedible – this can lead to broken teeth and restorations. If you do get food caught between your teeth, see your dentist right away to have it removed quickly.
In addition to healthy eating habits, make sure you brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily to remove plaque buildup. You may experience tenderness in your gums for the first few days after treatment, so be gentle when brushing and flossing. If sensitivity persists beyond a week, talk to your dentist in Federal Way, WA, about a prescription toothpaste that can help control discomfort.
To learn more about aftercare for a root canal, contact the dentist in Federal Way, WA, at Marine Hills Dentistry by calling (253) 839-2800 or visiting us at 1500 S Dash Point Rd, Federal Way, WA, 98003.