So, you’ve finally gotten that root canal done. But before you toss your dental worries out the window, there’s one more thing to keep in mind: after a root canal what happens next depends a lot on how well you follow your dentist’s care instructions. Root canals are a big win in restorative dentistry, but the healing journey doesn’t end when you leave the dental chair.
Whether you need a root canal or follow-up care, Dr. Matthew Bridges and the Chisholm Trail Smile Center team are here for you. So, contact our restorative dentist in Duncan, OK, at (580) 255-4880 for comprehensive care now!
In this post, Dr. Bridges talks about why following care instructions after a root canal matters and what can go wrong if you skip them!
The First 24 Hours Matter Most
After a root canal, your tooth and surrounding tissues are still healing. Your mouth might feel sore, sensitive, or slightly swollen. That’s totally normal.
But here’s the deal: if you don’t follow your dentist’s advice – like avoiding hard foods or skipping your pain meds – healing can take longer, or worse, get off track.
Skipping Meds? That’s a No-No
Pain relievers and antibiotics (if prescribed) help reduce inflammation and fight off infection. Ignoring them can lead to complications like swelling, pain, or even another infection.
After a root canal what happens when you skip meds? You risk undoing all that amazing dental work.
Eating the Wrong Foods Can Crack Your Tooth
Crunchy snacks and chewy treats are a bad idea right after treatment. Until you get a crown or permanent filling, your tooth is fragile.
After a root canal what happens if you bite into something hard? You might crack the tooth and need more dental work. Yikes!
Delaying the Final Crown Is a Common Mistake
Dr. Bridges may place a temporary filling first. But it’s just that – temporary! You’ll need a crown to seal and protect the tooth for the long haul.
After a root canal what happens if you wait too long? The tooth can break or become re-infected, and you may need another root canal (or worse – an extraction).
Poor Oral Hygiene = Bigger Problems
You still have to brush and floss every day. No skipping! A root canal treats infection inside the tooth, but you still need to keep your gums and other teeth healthy.
After a root canal what happens if you slack on hygiene? Bacteria can sneak in and cause new problems in the same tooth or nearby ones.
Skipping Your Follow-Up? Not a Good Idea
Follow-up visits let Dr. Bridges check healing and plan the final restoration. If something’s wrong, he can catch it early.
After a root canal what happens if you skip that check-in? You may not notice a problem until it’s already serious.
Schedule a Root Canal or Follow-up at Chisholm Trail Smile Center
Evidence suggests that root canals have an approximate success rate of 90%. But after a root canal what happens depends on YOU. So, follow Dr. Bridges’ instructions, attend your follow-ups, and treat your tooth with care. That’s how you make sure your root canal is successful.
Want to keep that tooth strong and happy? Let Chisholm Trail Smile Center help! Call us at (580) 255-4880 or click here to ask us any questions or schedule an appointment.
