4 Ways to Protect Your Mouth After a Root Canal

Root canals have quite the reputation. Since they’re widely associated with a mix of anticipation and concern, choosing to undergo one is a significant step towards preserving your dental health and, in our book, something to be proud of!

At Family Dental Group, our compassionate team of experts understands how transformative a root canal procedure can be, and more importantly, how crucial it is to help you navigate that recovery period effectively to protect your mouth and ensure the best results possible. 

So, if you’re curious about how to best approach your root canal healing journey, keep reading. Here are four essential ways to protect your mouth.

1. Follow our post-procedure guidelines 

When it comes to healing and protecting your mouth after a root canal, the first and most crucial step in your recovery is to follow our team’s professional advice. After your procedure, we provide specific instructions to facilitate your healing. Although every case is unique and catered to our patient’s specific needs, here are some common tips you can expect: 

Take prescribed medications 

If we’ve prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers, it’s important that you take them as directed to prevent infection and manage your discomfort. 

Avoid chewing on the treated side 

It’s super important to give your treated tooth as much time as it needs to heal. One way you can do this is by refraining from chewing on that side, opting for softer foods, and avoiding anything too hot or cold. 

Maintain good oral hygiene 

This should be a priority at all times, but especially when you’re healing from a root canal. Don’t forget to brush and floss gently around your treated tooth. We highly recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush for this to avoid irritating your already sensitive tissues. 

2. Home remedies for pain relief 

Although the most effective way to protect your mouth after a root canal is to follow our specific guidelines, there are some home remedies you can turn to when you’re searching for relief. Here are a few of our recommendations: 

Cold compress 

Struggling with swelling and need some quick relief? Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce it and numb the area. 

Over-the-counter pain relievers 

When in doubt, reach for trusty pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for relief. Just make sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult with our team if your pain persists. 

Salt water rinse

Gargling warm salt water can soothe your affected area and help keep your mouth clean, which can help protect you from infection. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse gently.  

3. Prioritize your nutrition

We hope you prioritize your health journey before and after any procedure. However, during your root canal recovery specifically, making mindful decisions about your diet is crucial.

In the initial days of recovery, we recommend prioritizing soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups to minimize stress on your newly treated tooth. Additionally, it helps to cut back on sugary foods to prevent bacterial growth and potential complications as your mouth heals. 

4. Don’t miss your follow-up appointments 

If we can leave you with one piece of advice to protect your mouth after a root canal, it’s to commit to regular checkups with us so we can continue to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns. 

If you experience any persistent pain, swelling, or unusual symptoms, your follow-ups are where we can prevent complications and ensure your road to recovery is as stress-free as possible. 

In conclusion, we hope that you’re taking the time to pat yourself on the back for choosing to maintain your oral health. Getting a root canal is a major step forward, but it requires a little extra support to guarantee you heal well. By following our guidance and some of our expert tips, your smile will be in tip-top shape in no time. 

If you’re ready to learn more about root canals and what to expect, schedule an appointment with Family Dental Group online at our Gardner, Northborough, or Paxton, Massachusetts, office at the earliest opportunity!