Getting a root canal can feel scary, but knowing what to expect during recovery helps you feel more prepared. Many patients ask their dentist how long it takes to heal after root canal therapy. The good news is that most people feel much better within a few days. Let’s talk about what happens after your root canal therapy near you and how to heal properly.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental treatment that saves infected or badly damaged teeth. During this procedure, your dentist removes the infected pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth) and cleans the tooth’s inner canals. After cleaning, the root canal dentist fills and seals the tooth to prevent more infection.
Immediate Recovery After Root Canal Treatment
Immediately after your root canal procedure, your mouth will be numb due to the local anaesthetic. The numbness will typically last 2-4 hours. During this time, dentist in Newmarket recommend being careful not to bite your tongue or cheek because you cannot feel pain.
Most people can go back to work or school the following day. Again, everybody heals at their own pace. Some individuals are okay within hours, and some may take a day or two to recover.
Day-by-Day Recovery Timeline
Here’s what you can expect during your recovery from root canal therapy
| Recovery Stage | Timeline | What to Expect |
| First 24 Hours | Day 1 | Mild to moderate discomfort, some swelling possible |
| Days 2-3 | Days 2-3 | Pain should decrease, swelling should goes down |
| Days 4-7 | Week 1 | Most discomfort should be gone |
| Days 7-14 | Week 2 | Complete healing, ready for final restoration |
Managing Pain and Discomfort
Following root canal treatment, there is a little discomfort. Your tooth and gums might feel sensitive for a day or two. This is due to the fact that the tissue around your tooth needs time to recover.
Your dentist will most probably recommend over-the-counter pain medication. These medications alleviate both pain and swelling. Follow the instructions on the package or as directed by your dentist.
Some patients require prescription pain medication for the first day or two. If your dentist prescribes more medication, use it precisely as directed.
What Can Affect Your Recovery Time?
Many things can make your recovery slower or quicker
- Condition of the tooth before treatment: Severely infected teeth may take longer than usual to heal. If you had a lot of pain before your root canal, you might find it difficult to get better for a few extra days.
- Your overall health: Healing may be slower for people with diabetes and other medical issues. So tell your root canal professional any medical problem you might be facing or having.
- Observing care instructions: Patients following the instructions of a dentist have a speedy recovery. This includes taking prescribed medication and avoiding hard foods.
- Age: Younger patients generally heal faster than older adults, though most of them heal quite well, irrespective of age.
Taking Care of Yourself During Recovery
Good self-care helps you heal faster after root canal therapy in Newmarket. Here are important things to remember
- Rest when you can: Rest for the first day. Avoid strenuous exercise or activity that could cause bleeding or swelling.
- Watch what you eat: Eat only soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the initial three days. Steer clear of hard, crunchy, or hot foods, which may damage your healing tooth.
- Keep your mouth clean: Brush your teeth lightly, but keep away from the treated area during the first day. Thereafter, brush as usual but softly near the treated tooth.
- Use cold packs: Place ice on the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes and then off for 15 minutes, repeating this up to 3 times within the first 24 hours. It reduces swelling and pain.
When to Call Your Dentist
Most individuals recover without issues following root canal treatment. However, call your dentist near you if you experience
- Severe pain that worsens after 2-3 days
- Swelling that gets worse rather than decreases
- Fever or illness
- The temporary filling comes out
- Your bite feels extremely uneven
- Allergic reaction to any medication that has been prescribed to you
These symptoms may indicate that you require further treatment or adjustment.
Completing Your Root Canal Treatment
Keep in mind that root canal treatment is typically completed in two visits. The first appointment involves removing the infection and installing a temporary filling. The second appointment, typically 1-2 weeks later, entails installing a permanent filling or crown.
Don’t miss your follow-up visit. Your tooth requires the final restoration to remain strong and healthy. Without the final restoration, your tooth may break or become infected once again.
Finding Root Canal Therapy Near You
When you have to undergo root canal treatment near you, you should start looking for a certified dentist in your area. Many general dentists perform root canals, and some refer to endodontists (root canal specialists).
When selecting a local service for root canal therapy, choose the one who explains the procedure and alleviates your anxiety. Find out how much experience they have with root canals and what kind of recovery to expect.
Save Your Natural Tooth With a Root Canal
Keep28 Dental Centre offers full dental care for patients of all age. Our treatments include preventive care, dental cleanings, crowns, root canal treatment, and more. We implement up-to-date equipment and practice safe procedures to maintain your smile. Schedule your appointment with Keep28 Dental Centre today.