How to care for a root canal

After root canal treatment, keep the tooth clean and protect it from heavy biting until its permanent restoration is placed.

Treatment cleans and seals canals inside the tooth; the tooth still has enamel, dentine, roots, and surrounding tissues.

Tenderness can occur while the root ligament settles, and lost tooth structure can fracture under heavy chewing.

Brush and clean between teeth, chew elsewhere with a temporary filling, and attend the restoration visit.

Seek care for swelling, worsening pain, a lost temporary filling, fever, or swallowing difficulty.

Ask when the final filling or crown is due and which warning signs matter.