Treatments for Root Canal – How long does it take to heal?

If your tooth hurts and hurts you, you might need root canal therapy. If your dentist thinks you need a root canal instead of a simple filling or a crown or will refer you to an endodontic to evaluate your situation.

We will tell you everything you need to know about the root canal procedure and the recovery process. Most importantly, you will know how long it takes to heal after a root canal procedure. 

What is a root canal treatment?

The bacteria that cause cavities can eat away at tooth enamel, making it weaker and less able to protect the nerves of the teeth from the outside world. You can avoid getting cavities if you brush your teeth twice daily and floss daily.

If the advanced decay is not treated, it can damage the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue of the teeth. This can lead to an infection if the decay is not treated.

If the infection has spread to the pulp and root of the tooth, the patient will need a root canal to get rid of the infection and protect themselves from other problems that could happen.

Root canal therapy is a way to get rid of an infection inside a tooth and keep the tooth healthy overall. This endodontic treatment works and doesn’t put your health at risk in any way.

During a “root canal,” one of our endodontists will carefully remove the diseased pulp from your tooth.

After the tooth’s pulp chamber has been cleaned out, your dentist will sterilize the cavity carefully to get rid of any leftovers from the procedure.

The tooth is then covered with a special material to prevent infection. A crown is made to fit over the tooth and protect it from further damage if needed.

How does root canal treatment work? 

Dentists will only offer dental root canal treatments if none of the other possible therapies will save an infected tooth.

If an infection develops in the dental pulp or the soft tissue at the core of a tooth, a root canal procedure will be required for treatment.

Your dentist will start the procedure by giving you sedation and then numb your mouth before beginning the procedure. 

After the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist will make an incision in the tooth’s crown, remove the diseased pulp, and then dry the area inside the tooth.

After that, the space is subsequently stuffed with a biocompatible substance before the hole is closed. A dental crown or a permanent filling will be placed on the tooth a few weeks later by the dentist to protect it.

When is a Root Canal Needed?

Let’s go over some of the possible causes of the need for root canal therapy. Pain in the tooth that is severe and continues for an extended period may suggest the necessity for a root canal.

A tooth’s pulp, or nerve centre, can occasionally be affected by dental disease. This pulp comprises connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues, all of which contribute to the overall health of your teeth and gums. It can be a major problem if the pulp becomes inflamed or infected.

 An infection can even spread to the teeth that are adjacent to the affected tooth, which can have an effect not only on your dental health but also on your general health.

Root canal treatment is an ideal method to prevent that, particularly if you have a damaged tooth and the decay has reached the pulp, producing an infection so that a filling is no longer an option. In that case, root canal treatment is a good alternative.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?

Endodontic staff provides you with useful suggestions and instructions for aftercare during your consultation before scheduling your root canal treatment. This will allow you to ensure that the treated area heals appropriately after completing the procedure.

Surprisingly little time is needed for recovery after having a root canal. You may notice some little swelling and sensitivity while chewing, but as long as you adhere to the aftercare guidelines, you should begin to feel back to normal within a few days. 

Most post-treatment symptoms are minimal and can be treated with analgesics available without a prescription.

Even though you will need some time to heal properly after having a root canal treatment, you don’t have to let this stop you from engaging in your regular activities. After undergoing surgery, the majority of patients can return to their jobs.

Tips for Faster Healing

The key to a painless root canal treatment is the local anesthetic. This anesthetic will fade hours after the treatment. 

The soreness will come from cleaning the inside of the tooth. It will also come from the new dental crown. Using the other side of the jaw for chewing will help reduce the pain.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help remove the discomfort. Taking these medications regularly can help the patient return to normal activities. The patient should avoid stressing over recovery. The dentist will help the patient go through it.

Following the dentist’s instructions is important for proper healing. Most patients recover after a few days or so. In some cases, patients go through complications. These patients may take one to two weeks to heal. 

Any pain or swelling that pain medication cannot relieve will need treatment from the dentist or a doctor.

Additionally, you can help to facilitate the healing process by following some simple tips, such as:

• Do not chew or drink hot liquids until the anesthetic has completely worn off 
• Take the pain medication your dentist prescribes or recommends
• Favour the side of your mouth that had the root canal treatment for a few days
• Return to your general dentist for a permanent restoration to avoid re-infection
• Avoid anything that can cause inflammation, such as spicy foods or alcohol
• Don’t hesitate to call our office if you have any questions or concerns

Do root canals hurt?

After root canal treatment, many individuals worry that they will continue to experience tooth pain. 

However, since the cause of the infection is eradicated during the procedure, most patients experience almost instantaneous relief after receiving treatment.

If you have recently had a root canal and are experiencing throbbing pain, you should contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.