For any smoker who goes through a root canal procedure, the first question that comes to their minds is whether or not they can smoke immediately after the intervention. After the dentist finishes the root canal therapy, your mouth will feel more numb and more fragile than usual, so smoking can be a danger that can lead to new dental problems.

That’s why Dr. Nathan Williamson as well as any other dentist will recommend you not to smoke after performing this procedure. Are you curious what the reasons are? Let’s find out!

WHY SHOULDN’T YOU SMOKE AFTER A ROOT CANAL?

There are a variety of reasons that should convince you to avoid smoking after a root canal, but the four most important are:

  • Smoking might have been the reason why you needed a root canal from the very beginning. Although you have just undergone a root canal procedure, there is a good chance that you will return to the dentist quite soon for another treatment due to this unhealthy habit that keeps deteriorating your health.
  • The healing process, which your body strives to complete after the procedure, may be slowed down because of smoking. This means your mouth will heal much slower than normal because of this habit, and you will suffer for longer because of it.
  • Smoking is bad for your overall health, both oral and general. This means that smoking will not only affect your smile and gums, but it will also affect your entire body and its functions.
  • Smoking is also a major cause of inflammation. While your body is under the effects of inflammation, it cannot properly fight infections. Because of this, you are more prone to infections because of smoking.

HOW LONG DO YOU HAVE TO WAIT AFTER THE PROCEDURE TO SMOKE AGAIN?

There are no exact specifications regarding the waiting time after the operation, but it is best to ask Dr. Nathan Williamson what he thinks is better for you and follow his instructions exactly.

But keep in mind that your mouth is numb immediately after the intervention, which means that you will not be able to feel almost anything around the area of the root canal.

It is best to try to avoid eating around that area for some time until your numbness passes.

Smoking is a habit that should generally be avoided, not just after a root canal. The effects produced by the substances contained in tobacco on your mouth are numerous, such as gum diseases, cavities, and shifting teeth.

Get Preventive Care With Williamson Dental

Don’t wait until you need a more invasive procedure like a root canal to care for your teeth. At our dentist office in Columbia IL, we are focused on offering preventive care and encourage our clients not to skip their appointments and commit to lifelong oral health.

Contact us today if you need root canal therapy or other dental services, such as cosmetic dentistry, or preventive dentistry