Root Canal Recovery: How Long It Takes and What to Avoid
This is a contributed post.
Root canals are a highly effective way to treat a damaged or infected tooth while keeping it intact, allowing you to maintain your natural smile and normal chewing function. The procedure itself is fairly straightforward. The dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth, cleans and shapes the canals, and fills them to prevent further infection. Finally, a crown or permanent filling is placed to restore the tooth’s strength and appearance.
While root canals are effective, some people are wary of the procedure and uncertain about what to expect afterwards. It is common to feel concerned about potential pain or how long the tooth will take to heal. Anyone who goes through such a procedure would want to be assured of a smooth and comfortable healing process.
If you’re considering undergoing this treatment, this article provides clear guidance on what recovery usually looks like.
How Long Does Root Canal Recovery Usually Take?
First 24–48 hours
The first couple of days tend to bring the most noticeable symptoms, although they remain manageable for the majority of patients. You may feel sensitivity when chewing or brushing, and the tooth may respond slightly to pressure.
Nevertheless, most patients who undergo a root canal Singapore treatment find that any discomfort is mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. They can even resume work and daily activities promptly. However, it is best to avoid chewing on the treated side during this period to prevent unnecessary stress on the temporary filling.
Days 3–5
As inflammation continues to subside, discomfort should diminish significantly. Many patients report feeling almost back to normal by this stage, especially if the infection was caught early. Sensitivity while chewing typically reduces, and the gums begin to feel less tender. This improvement is a sign that the tissues are healing as expected, and the tooth is becoming more stable.
Around 1 Week
By the end of the week, most people experience little to no symptoms. If mild tenderness remains, it typically improves with time and proper care. However, if discomfort persists or worsens, it may indicate that the surrounding tissues need more attention or that an adjustment to the temporary filling is required. A quick consultation with your dentist can address this before the permanent crown is fitted.
After Placing the Permanent Crown
In Singapore, dentists usually schedule the placement of the permanent crown within one to two weeks after the root canal. This crown restores the tooth’s strength and protects it from future damage, particularly because a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment becomes more brittle over time. Once the crown is fitted and properly adjusted, the tooth should function just like your natural teeth, allowing you to chew normally and comfortably.
What to Avoid During Recovery
Eating on the Treated Side
The temporary filling protects the tooth while waiting for the crown, yet it is not designed to withstand the full force of chewing. That means that eating on the treated side can cause discomfort or, in some cases, lead to cracks or dislodgement of the temporary material. To prevent unnecessary complications, it is best to favour the opposite side until the permanent crown is secured.
Hard, Sticky, or Crunchy Foods
Avoid foods that require a strong biting force or are sticky enough to pull at the temporary filling during the first week. In Singapore, snacks such as caramel sweets, tapioca chips, and hard biscuits may seem harmless but can easily damage the treated tooth during this sensitive period. Even foods like nuts or chewy desserts can place excessive pressure on the area and disrupt healing.
Very Hot or Cold Food and Drinks
Although the nerve inside the tooth has been removed, the surrounding tissues remain sensitive during the initial healing period. Very hot kopi, iced beverages, or even spicy soups may trigger discomfort. That said, consume food and drinks at moderate temperatures to help ease sensitivity and reduce irritation.
Strenuous Exercise
Activities that significantly raise your heart rate can temporarily increase blood flow to the head and cause throbbing in the treated area. While light exercise is usually fine, it is best to postpone intense workouts for a day or two until the discomfort settles.
Smoking
Smoking interferes with recovery and increases susceptibility to infection. It can also raise the likelihood of complications following dental treatment. If you stop smoking during recovery, your body has the best chance to heal efficiently, and you reduce the likelihood of pain or reinfection.
Poking or Touching the Area
Many patients instinctively try to check the treated tooth using their tongue or fingers. However, poking the area can irritate the gums or loosen the temporary filling. It is best to leave the tooth alone, except when brushing or flossing gently.
Delay in Visiting the Dentist
Avoid postponing follow-up appointments or waiting too long to report unusual symptoms. If you notice persistent pain, swelling, fever, or a loose temporary filling, contact your dentist immediately. Prompt attention prevents minor issues from becoming more serious and ensures proper healing.
A root canal can feel like a major dental milestone, yet recovery is often more comfortable and straightforward than expected. As the treated tooth heals and the inflammation settles, each passing day brings a little more ease. With attentive aftercare and timely follow-up, most people in Singapore find themselves returning to normal life sooner than they imagined and free from the pain that brought them to the dentist in the first place.
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