While comedic media such as cartoons and farcical movies have often portrayed root canals as absurdly dreadful, these depictions are not true to life. In fact, modern root canal treatments are completely painless and can bring an immediate end to an agonizing toothache. However, you may experience some temporary mild soreness for a few days after the procedure. Here’s a quick overview of the root canal process and how you can keep yourself comfortable while recovering afterward.
What Can Root Canals Address?
Root canals are generally performed to resolve or prevent severe dental infections. They may be used to treat a tooth that has been compromised by decay or whose inner structures have been exposed to the oral environment by damage such as cracks. A severely decayed tooth that does not receive a root canal may spread its infection to neighboring teeth, and it may even lead to dangerous secondary infections like sepsis.
How Do Root Canals Work?
Root canals are common endodontic procedures designed to remove decayed dental structure and eliminate destructive dental infections at their source. The process begins with your endodontist administering a local anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain. Once you are comfortable, your endodontist will open your tooth, remove any infected tissue, sanitize and fill the inner chamber, and place a dental crown so the tooth can function normally afterward.
Will I Experience Discomfort After a Root Canal?
While the root canal process can eliminate an agonizing dental infection at its source, the treatment area will probably be a little sore for a few days afterward. This discomfort will be quite mild and will gradually fade away, and it will also be far preferable to the miserable pain of the toothache the root canal was used to address. You can reduce this temporary discomfort in ways such as:
- Taking pain relievers or antibiotics according to your endodontist’s instructions
- Applying an over-the-counter topical oral analgesic
- Avoiding chewing with the treated tooth until you can do so comfortably
- Taking special care to brush and floss the treated tooth gently
Strictly adhering to your endodontist’s aftercare instructions is the best to ensure your comfort after receiving a root canal. With excellent care, the treated tooth may be able to stay in excellent condition for decades.
About the Practice
Endodontic Group of Jersey City provides the finest intensive dental services in town. Led by Drs. Nassim Kohly, Ali Forghani, Ramin Rahmani, and Alex Choi, the staff treats each patient with exemplary courtesy and compassion in a calming and comforting office environment. Areas of expertise include root canals, endodontic retreatments, and emergency dentistry. To learn more about root canal aftercare, contact the practice online or dial (201) 484-5404.