Because of a history of negative portrayals of root canal therapies in the media, they are often feared, dreaded and postponed. If you are about to have root canal therapy, don’t be afraid. You can have a comfortable procedure and recover quickly and completely.

Your gum tissue may be sore because of the clips used on the dental dam that protects and isolates the tooth from the surrounding area. It should abate within 48 hours. The tooth itself may be sore, as the tissues that surround the tooth may be inflamed. Treat this pain with over-the-counter medications that have anti-inflammatory properties like ibuprofen or aspirin. If you were prescribed pain medication by your endodontist, be certain any additional medications you take are appropriate.

If you are taking narcotic pain relievers prescribed by your doctor, take them only as recommended. Because they can make you feel dizzy or sleepy, do not drive while you are taking them.

Don’t eat anything while your mouth is still numb. You might bite your tongue or cheek and do damage to your soft tissues. Don’t bite on hard foods on the affected tooth until your endodontist tells you it is fully restored.

Any remaining infection that you have will typically need to be treated with antibiotics. Take each pill as recommended by your doctor. Don’t stop before you have taken them all, or you could leave some traces of the infection behind, putting your root canal treatment at risk of failure.

If you are experiencing a fever or a severe pain that persists beyond your analgesics, talk to your endodontist. If your filling feels loose or falls out, contact your doctor immediately. If you have pain or swelling that extends up your cheek or if your tooth breaks, cracks or hurts when you bite down, you need to call. Your endodontist will give you the advice you need to resolve your particular issue.

Root canal dentist in Weymouth, MA