What to Expect After a Root Canal

Root canals have a bad reputation, but in reality, they’re a pain-relieving treatment — not a painful one. At First Care Dental in Carson City, NV, our gentle approach and modern technology make the procedure comfortable. Still, it’s normal to wonder what happens after your appointment and how to recover smoothly. Root canal treatment is one of the most effective ways to save a natural tooth that has become badly infected or damaged. While many patients feel anxious about the procedure, modern techniques make root canals safe, comfortable, and highly successful. If you’re preparing for this treatment at First Care Dental, here’s what you can expect during your recovery. Many patients ask what to expect after a root canal, especially when it comes to recovery time and pain management.

Here’s what you need to know.

Immediate Post-Procedure Sensations

After a root canal, you may feel:

  • Mild numbness for a few hours (from local anesthesia)

  • Slight tenderness around the treated tooth

  • Temporary gum sensitivity

These effects are completely normal and should improve within a few days.

Managing Discomfort

Most patients can control any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Pro tip:

  • Take your first dose before the anesthesia wears off.

  • Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your dentist places a permanent crown.

Eating After a Root Canal

For the first day:

  • Stick to soft foods (yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs).

  • Avoid hot drinks until numbness wears off to prevent burns.

  • Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

Follow-Up Care

Root canal therapy usually requires a follow-up visit to place a permanent crown or filling. This strengthens the tooth and prevents future damage. Skipping this step could cause the tooth to fracture.

Signs to Call Your Dentist

Contact First Care Dental right away if you experience:

  • Severe pain that doesn’t improve after a few days

  • Swelling inside or outside your mouth

  • An uneven bite or difficulty closing your mouth

  • Signs of infection (fever, foul taste, or pus)