RCT Treatment - Can Ayurveda Help in Healing After a Root Canal? - #16494
I recently had an RCT treatment done on one of my molars due to a deep cavity that was causing severe pain. The dentist recommended RCT treatment to save the tooth, and while the procedure itself wasn’t as painful as I expected, I’ve been having discomfort ever since. My tooth still feels sensitive, and sometimes I get a dull aching sensation that spreads to my jaw. Before getting the RCT treatment, I tried to manage the pain with home remedies like clove oil and warm salt water rinses, but nothing helped. Now, even after the procedure, I’m experiencing inflammation around the gums near the treated tooth. My dentist said it could be due to the healing process, but I feel like it’s not improving. I was also given antibiotics, but I prefer to avoid them unless absolutely necessary. I have heard that Ayurveda has natural ways to support dental health and post-RCT treatment healing. Are there specific Ayurvedic remedies to reduce inflammation and pain after an RCT treatment? Can herbs or medicated oils help prevent reinfection and strengthen the treated tooth? Also, I’m worried about the long-term effects of RCT treatment. I read somewhere that dead teeth can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Does Ayurveda have a different perspective on this? Are there dietary changes or specific herbs that can help maintain oral health after an RCT treatment? Lastly, I’ve noticed some digestive issues after taking the medications post-RCT treatment. Could this be related? Is there a way to detoxify my system using Ayurvedic principles after taking antibiotics? I would love to hear from anyone who has used Ayurveda for dental healing, especially after an RCT treatment. Any home remedies or lifestyle tips would be really helpful!
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Doctors’ responses
After an RCT treatment, it’s common to experience some lingering discomfort, but Ayurveda can help with healing, reducing inflammation, and preventing reinfection naturally. Gandusha (oil pulling) with medicated oils like sesame oil infused with clove or Triphala can soothe the gums, reduce bacteria, and support healing. Rinsing with warm salt water and turmeric also helps with inflammation. Clove oil is excellent for pain relief, but mix it with a carrier oil to prevent irritation.
Ayurveda considers a dead tooth (after RCT treatment) as lacking Prana (vital energy), making it more susceptible to bacterial buildup. To prevent reinfection, maintain strong oral hygiene with herbal tooth powders containing neem, babool, and licorice. Consuming calcium-rich foods (like sesame seeds and ragi) and vitamin C sources (like amla) can strengthen teeth and gums. Avoid sticky, refined, and very hot or cold foods that can irritate the treated area.
If antibiotics caused digestive issues, Ayurveda recommends Triphala churna at night to gently detoxify and restore gut health. Drinking coriander, fennel, or cumin tea can help rebalance digestion. Include buttermilk with a pinch of rock salt and roasted cumin to restore gut flora naturally.
To ensure long-term oral health, avoid excessive processed sugars, and regularly massage gums with herbal oils like dasanakanthi or mahanarayana taila.
Mild aortic dilation can be managed with Ayurvedic support by focusing on strengthening the blood vessels, improving circulation, and reducing stress. Herbs such as Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi are beneficial for maintaining heart health, improving arterial elasticity, and reducing oxidative stress. Arjuna, in particular, can help regulate blood pressure and support the aorta. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like garlic, turmeric, and flaxseeds is ideal, while processed and salty foods should be avoided. Incorporating stress-relieving practices like Pranayama (breathing techniques), particularly Anulom Vilom, can help maintain healthy circulation. Regular Abhyanga with warm oils like Dhanwantharam Taila can also enhance circulation and overall heart health. These practices, alongside monitoring and lifestyle adjustments, can support a healthy aorta and prevent complications.
Ayurveda definitely has some insights and remedies for post-RCT discomforts, and I’m happy to share what might be helpful for you! So, you’ve had a root canal, and the healing process can sometimes be a bit finnicky, with sensitivity or inflammation hanging around longer than we like. First off, since you’re having some inflammation, gandusha (oil pulling) with warm sesame oil can be soothing. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can draw out toxins, reducing inflammation around the gums. Try to do this early in the morning before brushing your teeth for about 10-15 minutes.
For herbs, triphala is a good option. It supports gum health and boosts the immune system. You could make a warm decoction of triphala and use it as a mouth rinse. Plus, a simple paste made from turmeric and a little bit of water applied around the gums can help with swelling thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
About your concern with antibiotics - it’s understandable to feel wary. They can disrupt your digestive fire (agni) and cause imbalance. To soothe your digestive system, consider drinking warm cumin, coriander, and fennel (CCF tea) daily. These spices are gentle on the stomach and support digestion.
Dead teeth becoming a breeding ground is a common worry, but Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining oral hygiene and keeping your digestive system balanced to prevent any systemic issues. Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and veggies, with limited processed foods, can support your oral health. Amla, rich in Vitamin C, is particularly beneficial for dental tissue strength.
Regarding detoxifying post-antibiotics, encouraging your natural detox pathways by drinking plenty of warm water, and having meals at regular intervals, can keep things moving smoothly. Do consider including probiotics or fermented foods like yogurt to restore good gut bacteria.
Anyway, monitor your symptoms—if the discomfort persists, definitely check back with your dentist. Ayurveda is great for support, but it’s always best to keep an eye on things when it comes to dental health!

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