AFTER YOUR VISIT
Post Treatment Instructions
Will there be discomfort after the procedure?
Some discomfort is expected after root canal treatment is completed. We are treating delicate tissue which undergo a normal inflammatory response. Therefore tenderness to chewing, sensitivity at the site of injection, and jaw soreness can be expected for 3-4 days. In certain cases swelling can occur, for which antibiotics may be prescribed. If you experience prolonged pain or develop swelling, please don't hesitate to call.
Are there any restrictions after treatment?
Since anesthetics are routinely administered, you will experience a numbing sensation of the lip and or tongue. Therefore we ask that you refrain from eating up to 3-4 hours after treatment is completed. This will prevent self-injury to your lip and tongue, and allow our filling materials to set properly. In most instances you can return to your normal day-to-day activities such as work and exercise, immediately.
What medication will I need?
Please take your medications as prescribed by the endodontist. Over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), can be taken up to 3 tablets at a time, for moderate discomfort every 6 hours as needed. An additional 500mg of Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be taken with the ibuprofen for more intense pain. Narcotics, such as Vicodin or Percocet, may be prescribed and can be alternated with ibuprofen to prolong comfort in severe cases. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications are to be used as a primary means of pain relief, as root canal treatment is an inflammatory response. Therefore narcotics should ONLY be used in extreme cases.
What happens if I continue to feel something?
Most patients present with some discomfort before coming in for a root canal. This process irritates tissues within and around the tooth. As with any other part of our body, these areas take time to heal, especially after endodontic treatment. Two weeks is a good time frame to allow these tissues to heal and start to feel more normal. However we all heal at different rates, so please call us if there are any concerns.
When can I start chewing on my tooth?
We do not recommend regular chewing on your tooth until it has been fully restored with a crown. The risk of tooth fracture is very high in treated teeth without such of a permanent restoration. You should call to schedule an appointment with your general dentist as soon as possible after root canal treatment. It is advised not to wait more than two weeks. This not only helps prevent fracture of the tooth, but also prevents contamination which may lead to failure, necessitating a repeat of the root canal treatment.
What if I already have a crown?
If you are having a root canal performed on a tooth which already has a crown, treatment will generally be done through a small opening on the top. Your dentist will need to repair the opening after your root canal is completed. A new crown may be recommended if deemed necessary by your general dentist.
Less than 5% of the time, crowns with porcelain (tooth colored crowns) are susceptible to fracture. If the porcelain fractures in a way that makes the crown no longer functional or esthetic, replacing the crown may be necessary.
Post-Surgical Instructions
Home Care Instructions following surgery
Day of Surgery
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after leaving office, rest and avoid strenuous activity
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take pain medication until you retire. To maintain comfort, apply cloth surface of the pack on the affected area, or if pack is too cold place it in a sleeve or a towel. Treat area for 15-20 minutes and then remove and place gel pack back in the freezer for 20 minutes. Place the gel pack back on the area and repeat for the rest of the day to minimize swelling and discoloration
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eat soft foods only, room temperature or colder
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avoid chewing in the operated area for 2-3 days
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DO NOT forcefully rinse, spit or use a “Water-Pik”
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Avoid lifting/pulling the lip to maintain the sutures and allow healing
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Avoid smoking and drinking through straws
Following Day
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rinse gently with prescribed Peridex, twice daily
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brush the rest of your teeth after meals, careful not to disturb the sutures
Remember:
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Over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), can be taken up to 3 tablets at a time, for moderate discomfort every 6 hours as needed. An additional 500mg of Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be taken with the ibuprofen for more intense pain. Narcotics, such as Vicodin or Percocet, may be prescribed and can be alternated with ibuprofen to prolong comfort in severe cases. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications are to be used as a primary means of pain relief, as root canal treatment is an inflammatory response. Therefore narcotics should ONLY be used in extreme cases.
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Antibiotics will be prescribed if necessary
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return to the office for a follow-up
Notes:
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some discomfort is usually present; severe pain seldom occurs
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if the medication prescribed does not restore comfort, please call us
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there will be some swelling and discoloration for 3-5 days post-op; this is a normal part of the healing process
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there is often a temporary loss of feeling in the operated area
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the operated tooth may feel loose for a time
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should any condition arise which causes you concern, please call us