CARING FOR YOUR TOOTH AFTER A ROOT CANAL
Endodontic (root canal) procedures are an effective way to treat decay which has spread to the pulp or inner part of the tooth. Thanks to advances in dentistry, root canal treatments are now more painless than ever before. Recovery is usually fast and associated with minimal discomfort. If you have had a root canal in Naples, there are a few guidelines you should follow. These will help you to heal as quickly as possible. Always consult your dentist for more detailed information about your own personal dental aftercare.
Immediate Aftercare
Following your appointment, your mouth and tongue may be numb from the aftereffects of local anesthetic. Avoid eating or drinking until the numbness has subsided. Do not bite down hard or chew using the affected tooth until your tooth has been fully restored to normal function. Your dentist may have treated the tooth with a temporary filling material. You may find that a little of the temporary material wears off. This is not usually a cause for concern. However, you should contact your dentist if the loss is substantial. Following treatment, brush and floss your teeth as normal. Consult your dentist immediately if you observe one of the following symptoms: marked swelling around or inside the mouth; misalignment of the teeth; an itchy rash or other sign of a possible allergic reaction;a severe toothache.
Medium-Term Aftercare
After your endodontic treatment, you will need to schedule a follow-up appointment to allow your dentist to perform a full restoration of your tooth. This will ensure that the treated tooth remains healthy in the longer term.
Long-Term Aftercare
With proper care, the treated tooth can be as durable as any of your other teeth. To safeguard the health of all your teeth, maintain excellent dental hygiene. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and schedule regular dental appointments and cleanings. The dentist may X-ray the affected tooth at regular intervals in order to monitor the healing process. In some cases, the infection may return, in which case the tooth may need to be treated a second time.
