Become a Gum Expert for Better Health

Become a Gum Expert for Better Health

About Me

Become a Gum Expert for Better Health

When you think about gum, you might think of blowing bubbles, or freshening your breath. However, the gums you need to think of first are the pink ones in your mouth supporting your teeth. I didn't know how important healthy gums were until I came down with a case of gingivitis in my early 20's. I had neglected my brushing and flossing habits for nearly a decade, so my last few years of college were marred by pain in my mouth and bleeding gums. It took me over a year of hard work to reverse the damage I caused and restore my mouth to peak health. My recovery included an uncomfortable and lengthy procedure known as root planing, and that experience convinced me to help others avoid the entire issue of gum disease. This is why I've created my own website to help everyone protect their gums the easy way.

 

Pain Management Tips For After You Have A Root Canal

3 August 2015
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

Share

It is completely natural to be concerned about pain following a root canal or other endodontic procedure. While this tooth-saving procedure is necessary, this knowledge just doesn't make getting yourself into the dental chair any easier.

If post-procedure pain has you putting off your root canal, then planning for any possible pain after it is done will help to get you into the endodontist's office to take care of your teeth once and for all. Follow these tips for relieving pain and discomfort after your root canal procedure:

Tip: Make a Soothing Tea

Tea contains a special ingredient known as tannic acid. Tannic acid is a natural anti-inflammatory that works well for swollen gums and dental pain. 

To get the most tannic acid, brew a cup of tea and then place the tea bag directly onto your gums where they are sore from your root canal. You should leave the tea bag on the painful area for a few minutes and then dispose of it in the trash. Follow up by drinking the warm tea and swishing it around your mouth before you swallow it.

Tip: Apply Clove Oil

Clove oil contains a compound known as eugenol. Eugenol is a natural anesthetic and is very effective for relieving pain after a root canal. Clove oil has been used for dental pain for centuries all over the world.

To get the best results using clove oil, place a few drops of it onto a cotton ball and then place the cotton ball next to the area you feel pain. Let the cotton ball sit in place for a few minutes before removing it.

Tip: Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods

Until a permanent crown is placed onto your decayed tooth, you should avoid chewing on any hard, crunchy, or rubbery foods:

  • candy
  • hard vegetables and fruits
  • sourdough or French bread

In addition, you should avoid chewing gum. Even sugarless gum can pull out your temporary filling and require additional endodontic work.

Tip: Don't Eat While Anesthesia is Still Working

Finally, you should not attempt to eat anything until all of the anesthesia has worn off after your root canal procedure. If you eat while you are still numb, then you may bite your cheek or tongue and give yourself a whole new area in your mouth that is painful. 

If you need additional information about post-procedure dental pain relief, you should speak with your endodontist. Contact a professional like John P Poovey DMD PC if you have more questions or concerns.