What to expect when recovering from root canal therapy
Root canal therapy is a critical dental procedure designed to save teeth that are severely infected or damaged. At West Fort Worth Endodontics, the treatment involves removing the infected pulp of the tooth, disinfecting the area and then sealing it to prevent future infections. Many of our patients are curious about what the recovery process is like, so this blog post is dedicating to what recovering from root canal therapy is like.
What is root canal therapy, and why might I need it?
Root canal therapy, synonymous with the infamous "root canal", is a dental procedure that treats the inside of the tooth, specifically the soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues that are vital during tooth development but can be removed in adult teeth without any problems. Root canal therapy may be recommended if you have deep decay, an infected or abscessed tooth,or severe damage to your tooth's root system.
Recognizing the signs that you might need a root canal can help in seeking early treatment and avoiding complications. Symptoms often include severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discoloration of the tooth and swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to contact an endodontist like us at WFW Endodontics promptly for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What to expect before the procedure
Before undergoing root canal therapy, you will have an initial consultation with Dr. Nieves or Dr. Fitzhugh, both board-certified endodontists who are experts at root canal therapy. During this visit, they'll examine your tooth, take X-rays and/or 3D imaging and discuss the procedure in detail so you know exactly what to expect.
Pre-procedure instructions often include avoiding certain foods and medications. You'll also receive guidance on what to expect during the therapy, ensuring you feel prepared and comfortable.
The root canal therapy procedure, easily explained
Root canal therapy is a multi-step process that typically takes one or two visits to complete:
Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area.
Access opening: Your endodontist creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp.
Cleaning and shaping: The infected pulp is removed, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped and disinfected.
Filling the canals: The cleaned canals are then filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed.
Temporary filling: A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration (such as a crown) is applied. This depends on the damage found to your tooth.
Throughout the procedure, advanced dental technologies and anesthetics are used to ensure maximum comfort and efficiency. Many of our patients barely feel anything during the procedure and are generally pretty relaxed and even able to talk a bit with the endodontist!
Post-procedure care guidelines
Proper post-procedure care is essential for a smooth recovery. Here’s what you should do in the days following your root canal therapy:
Pain management: It's normal to experience some discomfort and mild pain after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage this.
Oral hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, but avoid the treated tooth until it feels comfortable.
Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the treated tooth until it is permanently restored.
Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to receive your permanent restoration.
The recovery timeline and what's normal/not normal
Recovery from root canal therapy varies, but most patients begin to feel better within a few days to a week. Here’s a general timeline for what to expect:
First few days: Mild pain and sensitivity are common. Use prescribed or over-the-counter medications as directed.
One week post-procedure: Most discomfort should subside. If pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist.
Two to three weeks: The treated tooth should feel normal, but ensure you return for your permanent restoration if only a temporary filling was placed.
Successful healing signs include reduced pain and inflammation, along with the ability to resume normal chewing and biting functions. What's not normal for the recovery timeline from root canal therapy is severe pain, swelling or fever, so if you do experience any of these, call our office immediately at 817-769-6100.
Long-term benefits of root canal therapy
Opting for root canal therapy has several long-term benefits, including preserving your natural tooth, which is always preferable to extraction. It helps maintain the integrity of your bite and prevents neighboring teeth from shifting. Additionally, modern root canal therapy is highly effective and has a high success rate, dispelling myths that the procedure itself causes illness or prolonged pain.
Contact us if you think you're experiencing tooth pain or have questions about root canal therapy
Root canal therapy is a vital procedure for preserving your natural teeth and maintaining overall oral health. By understanding what to expect before and after the procedure, you can navigate the recovery process with confidence and ease. If you're experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms mentioned above, don't hesitate to contact us at West Fort Worth Endodontics. Our team is here to provide expert care and support throughout your treatment journey.