Have you heard that root canal therapy can save a tooth with a damaged center? If you decide avoid root canal therapy, the damaged tooth could eventually die and even fall out. Once you have root canal therapy, how should you continue to care for your teeth? More specifically, do you know what you should do—or avoid doing—to help your tooth heal?
There are several things you may need to avoid doing after you’ve had root canal therapy until your mouth heals. For example, please remember to stay away from hard foods for a few days. Similarly, please remember to avoid chewing until after any numbness has worn off. If you chew while your mouth is numb, you could unintentionally damage your tongue or your cheeks.
You should also remember to avoid drinking with a straw. Using a straw could disturb the tooth as it is healing and lead to a number of issues. You should also eat slowly and cautiously until your mouth heals. After you are finished healing, you should avoid chewing exclusively on the untreated side of your mouth. Unbalanced chewing can cause soreness and aches in your jaw.
If you’re interested in learning more about root canal therapy, we invite you to contact Scott M. Healey Dentistry at 801.653.0099. Dr. Scott Healey will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you understand what you should expect to do after this treatment. We’re excited to hear from you soon.
