What to Expect After Your Root Canal

Root canals have a reputation for being painful and something you want no part of. 

Our team at Smile Design Manhattan in New York City is here to dispel that myth. Root canals are a routine part of dental care, and we perform them with no pain or discomfort. 

Still, you may wonder what happens after we finish this tooth-saving procedure. Here’s what we can tell you:

What’s a root canal?

Tooth pain or sensitivity may result from dental decay caused by an infection inside your tooth. If so, you likely need a root canal to remove the tooth’s pulp and root. Removing the damaged and diseased material can save your tooth and protect you from a more serious infection.

Your tooth doesn’t need the root and pulp to survive. Once we remove that tissue, we fill the tooth with a dental cement that strengthens it and prevents further infection. Then we place a temporary crown on the tooth; you return to the office in a few weeks for a permanent crown.

What happens next?

We perform the root canal procedure with local anesthetic, which takes a few hours to wear off. Don’t chew food or drink any hot or cold liquids during this time — stick with lukewarm drinks. 

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, but don’t use a straw, which can disrupt the clotting process. Also, don’t smoke — smoking can interfere with the healing process. 

You’re likely to experience some tenderness and soreness in the few days after the procedure; over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any discomfort.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should contact us immediately: severe pain or pressure, noticeable swelling, an allergic reaction, or an uneven bite. If your temporary crown comes off, let us know. 

For the next few weeks after your root canal, brush and floss as usual but be gentle around the treated tooth. You can eat mostly normally, but avoid chewing hard foods or biting down heavily using that tooth.

Make sure to attend any follow-up appointments, especially to receive your permanent crown. If you take proper care of your tooth, the root canal should keep it in good shape for the rest of your life.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain that may require a root canal, our team at Smile Design Manhattan would be happy to help. Call our Midtown office today at 646–278-4579 or schedule your appointment online.