Root Canal Recovery Time
An infected tooth can cause ongoing pain that affects your ability to sleep, eat and speak. Contact Yorkshire Dental Suite to treat this discomfort and restore your once healthy smile.
The average recovery time for a root canal is 3 - 7 days. Complex cases may take 2 weeks or longer. Something important to note however is that everyone heals at a different rate, so we cannot give a definitive time.
In this blog, we’ll talk you through the recovery process, tips on how to help your mouth heal and provide eating guidance. We are always on hand to answer any questions too if you have any concerns about how you are recovering post-treatment.
What to expect after root canal treatment
As mentioned earlier, root canal recovery can take 1 – 2 weeks. To help visualise what to expect during this period, here is a rough timeline of the recovery process, put together by the experts at Yorkshire Dental Suite.
- First 3 hours: The anaesthetic is wearing off. Your mouth may feel tingly as it regains feeling. Avoid eating during this time as there is a risk of accidentally scalding yourself or biting your cheek.
- Days 1 – 3: Discomfort tends to be at its peak during this time. Soreness around the root canal site is common, but this can be managed with your usual over-the-counter pain medication.
- Days 4 – 7: Discomfort has typically subsided at this point, and most patients are back to their everyday routine. We recommend still being mindful of what you are eating to avoid aggravating the tooth.
- Weeks 1 – 2: The tooth should feel normal once again but, if you are still experiencing pain, contact your dentist. In some cases, a permanent dental crown is then attached.
What influences root canal recovery time?
You may be wondering why some root canals take longer to heal than others. If the tooth infection prior to the surgery was extreme and required a more complex surgery, this has the ability to lengthen recovery time.
The location of the infected tooth also plays an important role. Molars tend to have more complicated roots, making treatment trickier. In addition to this, how well you look after your tooth will dramatically impact the length of your recovery.
That’s not all – patients with weakened immune systems or certain medical conditions can take longer to heal then others. Finally, older patients may also face delays, as the ability to heal typically becomes impaired with age.
Do’s and don’ts after getting a root canal
To help ensure a smooth recovery, there are things you should and shouldn’t do following your root canal. Following this guidance also supports the long-term success of the treatment – if well cared for, your root canal can last up to 10+ years.
What should you do after a root canal and how does it help? | What shouldn’t you do after a root canal and why? |
Maintain a great oral hygiene routine (prevents infection) | Avoid smoking and vaping (delays healing) |
Stick to a soft food diet for at least 2 days post-treatment (eases discomfort) | Ignore pain (potentially indicates failure or infection) |
Attend two routine dental appointments annually (allows us to check for issues) | Use the treated tooth to chew (increases risk of fracture or break, aggravates pain) |
Be careful not to bump or knock your mouth (increases risk of break) | Exercise for at least 48 hours (causes swelling, increases risk of complications) |
Take over-the-counter pain medication (eases discomfort) | Eat or drink whilst still numb (risk of injury) |
How soon after a root canal can I eat normally?
Soft foods that require minimal chewing are best for patients who have just had a root canal. Anything hard, sticky, spicy or crunchy should be avoided for at least 48 hours (even longer if you are still experiencing pain) to avoid irritating or breaking the tooth.
There are still plenty of foods you may eat while you recover, which we have listed below. Remember to drink plenty of water too – remaining hydrated helps to minimise swelling and support healing.
- Potato
- Yoghurt
- Eggs
- Pasta
- Soups and broths
- Smoothies
- Fish
- Tofu
- Porridge
- Steamed or mashed vegetables
FAQs
Have questions about root canal recovery? We’re here to answer them. If your query isn’t addressed below, do not hesitate to contact us – we are here to help you throughout your recovery and beyond.
Do I need a day off work after a root canal?
Many patients are able to return to their normal activities the same or next day, including work. If you are experiencing discomfort, you may want to take some time off.
How quickly do you feel better after a root canal?
Recovery is as short as 72 hours. By this point, lingering pain and tenderness should be subsiding and, if you feel able, you can carry on your everyday routine.
What are the signs that a root canal has been successful?
Teeth are no longer sensitive when chewing and biting, there is no swelling present and toothache has subsided. These are three common signs that it has been a success.
What are the signs that a root canal has failed?
Root canals have an estimated success rate of 90% (1), but there is still a risk of treatment failure. Signs typically include persistent pain, swelling and sensitivity.
Why am I so tired the day after a root canal?
This is a completely normal side effect, and could be the result of adrenaline or sedation. Your body is also working hard to heal itself! However, if this grogginess persists beyond a few days, contact your dentist - this is an indicator of infection.
Conclusion:
Once your tooth has successfully recovered from root canal surgery, you will be able to eat, sleep and speak once again without discomfort or embarrassment. If you think your tooth is in need of the treatment, enquire with Yorkshire Dental Suite.
References:
(1) https://britishendodonticsociety.org.uk/public/further_information.aspx