After we’ve treated you, there are a few things that we want you to be aware of so that you won’t be stressed out and wondering what’s happening to your body.
It’s completely normal for your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days. This is the result of manipulation during treatment and the previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is expected and is no cause for alarm.
We gently recommend that you don’t chew food on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist. You may continue your regular dental hygiene routines.
To alleviate discomfort, we suggest that our patients take ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed. We don’t recommend that you consume alcohol while taking any of these medications. If you should experience discomfort that can’t be alleviated using the above listed medications, or if you should develop swelling, please contact our office immediately and we’ll guide you through a tailored comfort solution.
After a Root Canal
After we operated on your root canal, you need to return to your restorative dentist within 30 days. Please be aware that root canal treatment is incomplete until a permanent restoration is placed.
Antibiotics
If we’ve prescribed you antibiotics, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone. If we didn’t prescribe you pain medication but you’re still experiencing pain after your appointment, we recommend taking over the counter pain medication.
We recommend ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox) or extra strength Tylenol. If you happen to experience discomfort that can’t be controlled with pain medications, please call us so we can take care of you.
Crowning Your Tooth
Usually, the last step after root canal treatment is the placement of a crown on the tooth. A crown covers and protects the tooth from breaking in the future. Unless otherwise noted by the dentist, it is critical to have a crown placed on your root canal therapy treated tooth as soon as possible.
Delay in obtaining final restoration (crown) may result in fracture and/or possible loss of the tooth. If your bite feels uneven, you have persistent pain, or you have any other questions or concerns, please call our dental office.
Alleviate Your Discomfort
To alleviate discomfort, we suggest that our patients take ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed. We don’t recommend that you consume alcohol while taking any of these medications.
If you should experience discomfort that can’t be alleviated using the above listed medications, or if you should develop swelling, please contact our office immediately and we’ll guide you through a tailored comfort solution.
