The name “root canal” sounds very scary. Because of television and movies, we see a root canal as the worst thing that can happen at the dentist. Therefore, we may associate it with the sounds of drills and muffled screaming. However, that is not what an actual root canal is like. A root canal is meant to remove pain from an area.
If you have an infection, your dentist will use a root canal to remove the infected pulp. When you have a severe tooth infection, you can experience extreme pain and discomfort. Therefore, a dentist will use a root canal to alleviate your pain. Because an infection causes intense pain, it can feel like a root canal is incredibly painful.
First, your dentist will numb the area before the procedure begins. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the root canal. Second, your dentist will prepare you for recovery so that it can be. As smooth as possible. Here are some of the best tips for a root canal recovery.
Take Prescribed Medications
Before they send you home, your dentist will prescribe a couple of different medications so that you have a quick recovery. In addition, to avoid infections after your surgery, your dentist will give you antibiotics. This will help reduce your chance of developing an infection, which can lengthen your recovery.
Additionally, your dentist may prescribe painkillers to minimize any pain or discomfort post-surgery. If you do not wish to take prescription medication, you can always use over-the-counter medication, such as Tylenol or Advil. Not only will this reduce your pain, but this can also minimize the swelling.
Ice
Another way to dull the pain from your surgery is to ice your face. Cooling the area will reduce the swelling and help with pain management. In addition, like any injury, ice can speed the healing process by reducing inflammation.
Take It Easy
You should avoid any exercise or activity that will increase your heart rate in the first few days after your root canal. When your heart rate goes up, your blood pressure goes up too. If your blood pressure goes up, you can increase your chances of bleeding after your surgery. Therefore, it is best to stay out of the gym for a few days.
Avoid Using Straws
After your surgery, you should avoid using straws or doing anything that mimics a sucking motion. This is because you could run the risk of dislodging the clot that formed after your surgery. This is a condition known as “dry socket.” If you feel extreme pain following your surgery, it could be dry socket. Additionally, dry socket increases your risk of developing an infection.
Also, you should avoid eating or drinking any hot foods or beverages. Hot temperatures can dissolve the clot, creating a dry socket. Instead, it is best to eat soft foods and those with mild temperatures.