A root canal is a common dental procedure that saves teeth infected by prolonged tooth decay. During the procedure, which removes the infected pulp all the way down to the nerve endings, the dentist numbs the treatment area so that the patient does not feel pain. Unfortunately, the recovery period after having a Root Canal in Knoxville, TN can become extremely painful. Use the following tips to help ease post root canal pain.
Take a Pain Killer – The simplest way to fight pain after a root canal is to take an over-the-counter painkiller. Look for a painkiller that is also anti-inflammatory, which will help to reduce the pain and swelling associated with having this type of procedure. If over-the-counter options do not treat your pain effectively, ask your dentist to give you a prescription strength painkiller.
Use Numbing Gel – Another option for fighting post root canal pain is using a numbing gel on the gums surrounding the affected tooth. Mothers with teething babies usually use numbing gels to help their infants get through the rough stage, but it works just as well for adults trying to get through the pain of recent dental work.
Use an Ice Pack – An easy and free option for reducing the pain of root canal is applying an ice pack to the jaw over the affected area. Along with helping to numb the area, an ice pack helps to reduce the swelling that typically happens after a root canal. You can put ice cubes into a zipper bag and wrap a face towel around it before applying it to the area, or use a bag of frozen vegetables such as corn or peas from your freezer and apply it to the affected area instead.
Take a Liquid Diet – One of the most pain inducing activities after a root canal is chewing. Stick with a liquid based diet for several days after the procedure to avoid suffering through the pain that chewing during recovery causes. Use liquid foods such as meal replacement shakes and broth based soups until you are able to chew without pain.
These are some of the most effective methods for reducing the pain from having a root canal. Make an appointment today at Tennessee Valley Dental in Knoxville TN to see a dental professional that uses techniques and tools to make your recovery period as fast and pain-free as possible.
