After a root canal, it is important to take special care of the affected tooth for a few weeks or until your tooth is fully restored by your endodontist or dentist recommends otherwise. Here are some things to expect after a root canal:

• Numbness: Your tooth and the tissue surrounding it will be numbed with local anesthetic during your root canal procedure. This anesthetic can take several hours to wear off completely. Avoid chewing and drinking hot liquids until the numbness has subsided.

• Sensitivity: For the first few days after a root canal, some patients experience sensitivity, swelling, or inflammation, while others experience an uneven bite or a reaction to the medication provided by the endodontist. Regardless of symptoms, a follow-up appointment is almost always needed.

• Pain: After a root canal, you may experience some discomfort or tenderness around the treatment area for a few days. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

• Temporary filling: Although you will need to go to your dentist for a filling or crown, your tooth will have a temporary filling in the meantime to protect it from reinfection and damage.

• Eating: It’s a good idea to avoid solid food while you’re numb. After the numbness wears off, you can eat soft foods that require very little chewing, like applesauce, yogurt, eggs, and fish. Avoid hard or hot foods that might hurt your teeth.

• Oral hygiene: After root canal treatment, its important to keep the area clean. Brush and floss normally, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep germs at bay.

If you experience any severe pain or pressure lasting more than a few days, visible swelling inside or outside your mouth, or an allergic reaction to medication, contact your endodontist immediately.