A root canal is a procedure that removes inflamed or infected tissue from inside the tooth. During the root canal procedure, the nerve, pulp, and any bacteria are removed. This stops the infection from spreading and prevents further damage to the tooth.

Aftercare Instructions

• Do not eat and chew on the treated tooth until your root canal treatment is completed, as doing so may damage the restoration or cause an infection. 
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush and floss around your teeth as usual — though be gentle, so you don’t irritate the area. Take any medications as directed by your dentist. 
• Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions, especially when it comes to diet restrictions. Avoiding certain food and drinks prevents infection and helps the root canal site heal faster. Avoid eating hard or coarse foods that may damage the tooth and irritate the gums. Make sure to eat soft foods for the first few days and avoid chewing near the tooth until it has fully healed. This can include foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, smoothies, rice, pasta, applesauce, and puddings.
• Try to take an over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen in the area if the pain is severe during the first couple of days after the treatment. A warm salt water rinse can also help ease the pain and inflammation in the treated area. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help break up any food particles that may have become trapped in the gums or on the roots of the teeth during the procedure. This can also help prevent an infection from developing in the area. 
• Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent new cavities from forming and keep bacteria from building up in the mouth. This helps to keep your entire mouth healthy and prevents the need for additional treatments in the future. 
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to help prevent infections like gum disease around the treated teeth.
• Avoid smoking after your root canal. Smoking can increase the risk of complications such as infection, root resorption, and delayed healing.
• To make sure you heal properly after your visit with us at Arden Dental Center, continue to follow up with us for cleanings and exams.

Schedule an appointment with Arden Dental Center to learn more about taking care of your oral health. We are located at 531 E. Roosevelt Road, Suite 100, Wheaton, IL 60187. Contact our team at (630) 529-0303 or visit our website to book a consultation.