Root Canal AftercareIn San Diego
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Once your root canal is completed, you’ll likely experience mild to moderate soreness for a few days. This is a normal part of the healing process and is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
You may also notice:
- Tenderness when biting or chewing (especially for the first few days)
- Slight gum swelling around the treated tooth
- Minor sensitivity to pressure or temperature
Most symptoms subside within a week, especially when following proper aftercare guidelines. If you were prescribed medication or antibiotics, be sure to take them as directed.
Root Canal Follow-Up Appointment in San Diego
It’s essential to return to your general dentist for the final restoration—typically a crown—after your root canal. This final step seals and strengthens your tooth, preventing reinfection or fracture.
If you received a temporary filling at our office, we’ll coordinate with your dentist to ensure a smooth transition to permanent care. In some cases, we may schedule a follow-up at Relieve Root Canal Specialists to monitor healing or perform a second phase of treatment.
Need care fast? We offer same-day root canal treatment whenever appropriate to help you get relief without delay.
Root Canal Aftercare at Home
Eating and Chewing
Avoid chewing on the treated side until your permanent crown or restoration is placed. This protects the tooth from fracture and helps prevent reinfection. Stick to soft foods—such as soups, yogurt, smoothies, and eggs—for the first 24–48 hours after treatment. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy items until your tooth is fully restored.
Oral Hygiene and Medication
Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing—just be careful not to apply pressure directly to the treated tooth. Clean the area as instructed to reduce the risk of infection. Use over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed. These can help manage inflammation and soreness in the first few days after your root canal.
Healing Support
Stay well-hydrated to support tissue healing, and avoid smoking or drinking alcohol, which can delay recovery and increase the risk of complications. Our team will provide you with personalized aftercare instructions at your appointment.
Signs of Normal vs. Concerning Healing
Normal signs of healing include:
- Soreness or tenderness near the treated tooth
- Mild swelling in the gums
- Sensitivity that gradually improves over a few days
Concerning signs that may require follow-up care:
- Severe or worsening pain after 3–5 days
- Swelling that gets larger or spreads
- Fever or signs of systemic infection
- Pain when biting that persists for more than a week
- Discharge or bad taste near the treated tooth
If you're unsure whether your symptoms are part of normal healing, don’t hesitate to call our office. We’re here to help.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Once your root canal is completed
You’ll likely experience mild to moderate soreness for a few days. This is a normal part of the healing process and is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You may also notice...
Tenderness when biting or chewing
(especially for the first few days)
Slight gum swelling
around the treated tooth
Minor sensitivity
to pressure or temperature
Most symptoms subside within a week
Especially when following proper aftercare guidelines. If you were prescribed medication or antibiotics, be sure to take them as directed.
Have Questions?
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