So, you have just finished your treatment at The Endodontic Office. Give yourself a pat on the back! We know that for many people, the thought of a root canal is enough to make them feel a bit "kan cheong" (anxious). But now that the hard part is over, you might be wondering what comes next.

A root canal is a big deal for your health. it is the difference between keeping your natural tooth and having to pull it out. However, the work doesn't end the moment you leave the dental chair. The way you look after your tooth over the next few days and weeks is the key to making sure the treatment works.

At The Endodontic Office, we want to make sure your recovery is as "shiok" (pleasant) and smooth as possible. Here is our guide on the best ways to look after your tooth after the specialist has finished.

The First Few Hours: Be Careful

When you walk out of The Endodontic Office, your mouth will probably still be very numb. This is a tricky time for your recovery because you cannot feel what you are doing.

Avoid Hot Drinks and Food

Because you are numb, you won't be able to tell if a coffee is boiling hot or if you are biting down too hard on your cheek. It is very easy to burn your throat or chew a hole in your lip without knowing it. Wait until the "numb-numb" feeling has completely gone away before you try to eat anything.

Do Not "Kacau" the Area

It is tempting to poke the treated tooth with your tongue or finger to see how it feels. Try your best to leave it alone. The gums might be a bit tender from the numbing shot, and the more you mess with it, the more it will ache later.

Handling the Pain

Once the numbness goes away, you will likely feel a bit of "sian" (annoyance) from a dull ache. This is normal. Remember, your tooth just had work done.

Use Over-the-Counter Medicine

Usually, basic painkillers like Ibuprofen or Paracetamol from the shop are enough to handle the discomfort. Follow the instructions given by the team at The Endodontic Office. If the pain is very sharp and doesn't go away with medicine, that is when you should give us a call.

Salt Water Rinses

If your gums feel a bit swollen or sore where the shot was given, try rinsing with warm salt water. It is a simple way to keep the area clean and help the swelling go down faster.

Eating Habits: What to Eat (and What to Avoid)

Your tooth is a bit weak right after a root canal, especially if a temporary filling was used. You need to be a bit "geh ki" (picky) with your food for a while.

Stick to Soft Foods

Now is the time for porridge, tau huay, or soup. Soft foods don't need much pressure to chew, which gives the area around your tooth a chance to heal.

Avoid Anything Crunchy

Stay away from hard bread, ice, or nuts. If you bite down on something hard with a tooth that just had a root canal, the tooth could crack before the permanent crown is put on. At The Endodontic Office, we tell our patients to chew on the other side of their mouth for at least a week.

Cleaning Your Teeth: Keep it Simple

Just because the tooth is sore doesn't mean you can stop cleaning it. Keeping the area free of germs is very important.

Be Gentle with Brushing

You should still brush your teeth twice a day, but be very gentle around the treated spot. Use a soft toothbrush and take your time.

Be Careful When Flossing

If you have a temporary filling, be careful when you floss. Instead of pulling the floss back "up" through the teeth—which might catch the filling and pull it out—try sliding the floss out sideways. If the temporary filling falls out, please call The Endodontic Office to get it fixed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will it be sore?

A: Most people find that the soreness is worst in the first two to three days and then goes away. By the end of a week, you should feel like yourself again.

Q: Why do I need a crown if the pain is gone?

A: This is a very important point! After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle. A crown acts like a "helmet" to protect the tooth from cracking. If you don't get the crown, you might end up losing the tooth anyway, even if the root canal was done perfectly.

Q: Can I go back to work right away?

A: Yes, most people go straight back to the office or school. Unless you were given very strong medicine to sleep, you will be fine to drive or work. Just remember you might look a bit funny until the numbness wears off!

Q: What if I see a "pimple" on my gums?

A: If you notice a small bump on the gums, or if you have a fever, call The Endodontic Office right away. This could be a sign of an infection that needs to be checked.

The Goal: Keeping Your Natural Tooth

A root canal is done to save your natural smile. There is nothing better than your own tooth! By following these steps, you are making sure the work done at The Endodontic Office lasts a long time.

Be patient. Healing takes time. If you follow the "soft food" rule and keep your teeth clean, you will be eating your favourite chicken rice again in no time.

Why The Endodontic Office?

We know that dental work can be stressful. That is why we try to be as helpful and kind as possible. We don't just see you as a "case." We see you as a person who wants to get out of pain and get on with life.

Our specialists use the best tools to make sure your treatment is done right and stays comfortable. When you come to The Endodontic Office, you are in good hands.

Ready to Finish the Job?

The root canal is only the first step. To make sure your tooth stays strong, you must see your regular dentist for the final crown.

If you have any questions about your recovery or if things don't feel right, don't "tahan" (bear) the worry. Give us a call at The Endodontic Office today. We are here to help you through the whole healing process.