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Root Canal Recovery
Anyone who has had a compromised tooth knows that the amount of discomfort it causes can be extremely unpleasant. Although no one looks forward to a root canal, this procedure is actually the best way to both eliminate pain and save your tooth. If the pulp inside your tooth is infected or damaged, a root canal is probably necessary.
The process is relatively straightforward and can take place over one or two visits to our Lincoln, Nebraska office. The area around the tooth is numbed, the pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth, the area is thoroughly cleaned, and a temporary filling or crown is placed on the tooth to prevent bacteria and food from entering the site. A permanent crown will be fabricated and affixed to the tooth at a later visit.
Once your root canal is finished, recovery is usually only a matter of days. What can you to keep yourself as comfortable as possible during that time?
- The area around the affected tooth might be somewhat sore or sensitive for a few days. Let us know, and we can talk about medication to reduce pain and inflammation. If you are prescribed antibiotics, be sure to take the entire course of medication as directed.
- Taking an ibuprofen (if this is a pain reliever that is safe for you) before the anesthetic wears off will reduce the soreness in the hours immediately after the procedure.
- Wait until the numbness is gone before eating to avoid biting down on a temporary filling (or your tongue). Hot drinks are also best avoided.
- Avoid chewing on the side of the affected tooth until the restoration is complete. A soft diet is recommended for the first several days—chewy, sticky, and crunchy foods should wait.
- Continue with regular brushing and flossing.
- Call the doctor immediately if you experience severe pain or visible swelling, if you have an allergic response to medication, if your bite feels uneven, or if you lose the temporary filling.
Follow the instructions we’ll give you carefully, and feel free to call us with any concerns. We want to ensure that your root canal is as pain-free and worry-free as possible.
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Robin Post, D.D.S.
Dr. Robin Post graduated from Southeast Community College’s Dental Assisting Program and began her dental career in 1989. Following three years of full-time work, she pursued her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the UNMC College of Dentistry, graduating in 1998. Practicing in Lincoln, Nebraska, Dr. Post is dedicated to lifelong learning and sharing her knowledge to promote optimal oral health. She is passionate about helping patients achieve healthy, lasting smiles in a caring and supportive environment.
Chris Post, D.D.S.
Dr. Chris Post transitioned to dentistry from a previous career in law, driven by a genuine desire to help others. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UNMC College of Dentistry in 2009 and has since dedicated himself to providing compassionate, patient-focused care. Known for his commitment to enhancing oral health, Dr. Post strives to make a positive impact in each patient’s life through quality dental care and a supportive approach.