A root canal is a procedure where Dr. Tyler McCabe will remove diseased pulp from inside your tooth to cure an infection. Generally, the procedure involves adding a temporary filling for a short period while the irritation to the tooth and gum heals. Thereafter, Dr. Tyler McCabe will add a permanent filling and, if the tooth is a molar, a crown to prevent the tooth from cracking under the pressure of chewing. When it comes to root canals in Ocean Springs, aftercare is of premium importance.
The Right Steps
First, for the first hour or two after the procedure, don't eat or drink, especially anything hotter or colder than lukewarm. Temperature extremes could adversely affect the first stages of healing. After that, up until your final appointment with the family dentist in Ocean Springs named Dr. Tyler McCabe, avoid chewing hard food on that tooth.
While you're healing, it's also important to stop smoking if you smoke. In addition to the physical smoke having a detrimental effect on the external healing process, the chemicals in the smoke also slow down the body's internal healing processes. Smoking also causes mouth dryness, which can contribute to slowing down your healing. You should also avoid alcohol until after your final appointment because of the same drying effect.
Brushing
You should still brush that tooth, but you must be gentle in doing so. Use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush. You should also floss while taking care not to dislodge the temporary filling. Both of these will contribute to gum health, which is important for the continued existence of the tooth. Because the tooth will lack pulp, it'll have to get its nutrients from the surrounding tissue, which consists of your gum.
Awareness of Common Problems
It's crucial for you to monitor the state of your tooth as you heal. It's normal for that tooth to feel different than your other teeth. However, pain, excess swelling outside or inside your mouth, or any allergic reactions are danger signs. If any of these occur, call the office immediately to make an appointment to see Dr. Tyler McCabe as soon as possible. Other warning signs include losing either filling or the necessary crown, having an uneven bite, which could cause a cracked tooth, or any of the symptoms that necessitate your root canal recurring.
Conclusion: Don't Wait Unnecessarily
When you have severe tooth pain that's accompanied by swelling, it's time to seek a root canal in Ocean Springs. Dr. Tyler McCabe is a family dentist in Ocean Springs, and he can treat your infected tooth, saving it in the process in almost every case. Waiting will just mean that the infection will get worse. If you have these symptoms, then call us for an appointment right away.