Hearing that you need a root canal can invoke anxiety and fear, as it does for many patients. This is because the procedure is notorious due to its portrayals in movies and media, but the reality is that it’s not quite as scary as it’s made out to be! In fact, for many patients, root canal treatment erases toothaches and severe pain brought on by infection, in addition to allowing you to preserve your natural dental structure. All good things! After your procedure is complete, you’ll undergo a short root canal recovery time, but it’s nothing to be worried about. Read on to learn what to expect as you heal from your treatment.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
Depending on a number of factors, like the location of your tooth and the extent of the infection, the procedure itself only takes between 30 minutes to an hour on average. From here, you can expect to make a complete recovery within about a week. In some cases, you may experience some slight sensitivity or lingering discomfort throughout that time.
What Will You Feel After Getting a Root Canal?
After your procedure, you’ll continue to experience some swelling and tenderness for between about one and five days. You will likely notice the following as you heal:
- Swelling along the gumline near the affected tooth.
- Sensitivity and pain in and around the treated tooth.
- Temporary change in bite until your permanent crown is placed.
Keep in mind that all of these symptoms are normal, so there’s no need to be concerned if you’re experiencing them. However, after seven days have passed, if you’re still experiencing pain or it has become worse, you need to contact your dentist in Jacksonville.
Tips for Making a Speedy Recovery
The best way to minimize your pain after your procedure is to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions. These typically include:
- Ceasing smoking or using tobacco products until your tooth has recovered.
- Brush and floss after each meal, being sure to do so gently around the affected tooth.
- Eat a soft diet for the first few days following your procedure.
- Take prescribed medications as directed.
- Rinse with alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash daily to keep germs at bay.
Although the thought of undergoing root canal treatment may be scary because of the media portrayals that you’ve seen throughout your years, rest assured that it’s not as painful or daunting as you think! Within a week, you’ll make a complete recovery and come out of the process with a whole, healthy, and pain-free smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Khoi Le and Dr. Edward Murray have collective decades of experience beneath their belts and a passion for helping patients get out of pain quickly. That’s why they’re happy to accommodate patients with same-day emergency appointments, and even accept walk-ins from patients in pain. To learn more about root canal treatment and whether you need it to preserve your smile, visit Khoi Dental Group’s website or call 904-262-8409 today.