How Long Is Root Canal Recovery?

If you are dealing with an infected or damaged tooth, root canal therapy is often the best way to treat it. This dental procedure involves removing the infected pulp and cleaning and sealing the canals to help save and restore the tooth.

While the procedure itself is relatively quick, the recovery time can vary depending on a number of factors.

So, here's what to expect after root canal therapy.

Factors that Affect Recovery Time After a Root Canal

In general, it will take about one week for a root canal to heal. Some patients feel perfectly fine after just a couple of days while others need a bit longer to fully recover. This all depends on various factors.

Let's take a look at some of the factors that can affect the recovery period after a root canal in Oak Park:

• The Severity of the Infection: The more severe the infection and the more invasive the procedure, the longer it will take your tissues to recover.
• The Infected Tooth: The recovery time will also differ depending on the type of tooth that was affected. For example, molars typically have a longer recovery time than front teeth.
• Your Overall Health: It shouldn't come as a surprise that if you have a weakened immune system or suffer from other health conditions, you may take longer to recover after a root canal.
• Post-Treatment Care: Following your dentist's instructions can speed up healing and reduce the length of your recovery period.

What to Expect After a Root Canal

Immediately After the Treatment

Immediately after the procedure, you may experience some discomfort and tooth sensitivity. This is all normal and will go away in one day or two. You can use OTC pain medication to manage any discomfort. You should also avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days to allow the tooth to heal.

The First Few Days

During the first few days after the procedure, you may continue to experience some discomfort and sensitivity. You should continue to take any prescribed pain medication as directed and avoid eating hard or crunchy foods. You should also avoid biting or chewing directly on the treated tooth.

One Week After Root Canal Therapy

Most patients make a full recovery one week after the procedure. Most likely, you will no longer feel any discomfort or sensitivity and will be able to resume your normal diet and activities.

Long-term Recovery

While the recovery time for a root canal lasts between a few days and one week, your tooth will continue to heal for several weeks after. That's why it's important to see your dentist for a follow-up appointment so that you can check on the healing progress of the tooth.

Are You Suspecting a Tooth Infection? Call Us Right Away!

Are you in pain and thinking that your tooth may be infected? Call the team at Murphy Dental Group, PLLC at (708) 524-0330, tell us about your problem and we will be able to schedule a same-day appointment.

You can also contact us online, leave us a message, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.