What Should I Expect During Endodontic Recovery?
Every situation is different, but your dentist will give you personalized instructions to follow after your procedure. Note that your recovery time might be a bit longer if you undergo endodontic surgery. Your tooth might be sensitive for the first few days after treatment, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Your dentist can recommend over-the-counter pain medication to give you relief for any minimal discomfort due to tissue inflammation. If you had surgery, avoid vigorous brushing around the treated tooth, as well as chewing hard foods or ice with that tooth. If you experience intense pain or pus is draining from the surgical site, be sure to call your endodontist right away.
If all goes well, your endodontist will want to see you for a follow-up appointment within a week, and if you had surgery, you might need a stitch or two removed. All swelling and soreness should diminish within two weeks; however, it's essential to schedule an appointment with your general dentist as soon as possible to have either a crown or a filling done. This covering will protect the tooth and help give it full functionality.
Advances in dental technology are happening every day, and the field of endodontics is no exception. So, if you decide to go ahead with endodontic retreatment, your dentist might use techniques that weren't available when you originally had root canal treatment. While there are never guarantees, there is no reason to think that you can't keep your tooth for a lifetime of pain-free smiling.