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CARE INSTRUCTIONS

AFTER YOUR FIRST VISIT TO THE ENDODONTIST

 

  • You can expect a certain amount of soreness after today’s appointment.  This may last for a few days to as much as a week or so.   This is due mostly to the pre-existing condition of the tooth and somewhat by the procedures done for you today.  This is not an unusual situation.

 

  • Ideally, tissues heal more quickly when they are not being used.  This is very difficult in the mouth since we must bite, chew, and swallow.  Avoid chewing on the treated side, if you can, to reduce soreness and to speed recovery.

 

  • If there is soreness, we usually recommend an anti-inflammatory medication if a person can safely take them.  Taking 3 Ibuprofen tablets (Advil, Motrin, etc) every 6 hours can be very therapeutic and reduce post-treatment inflammation.  If you are unable to take an anti-inflammatory medication, take 2 extra-strength Tylenol every 6 hours until you experience relief.

 

  • Often antibiotics are prescribed during the treatment of root canal problems.  These can be very important in the initial healing of the affected area.  Take the prescription according to the directions given and if there are any difficulties, please let this office know.  It often takes 2-3 days for a person’s system to respond to antibiotics.  DO NOT APPLY ANY HEAT to the outside of your face.

 

  • In most cases, you can expect to have your treatment completed at your next visit.  Treating root canal problems in a timely manner can be very important to their long-term success.  If you have any additional questions or concerns about your treatment, please let us know.

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR
THE RELIEF OF YOUR DENTAL ABSCESS

 

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  • “Water Chew” with warm salt water for 5 minutes of each hour that you are normally awake until there is relief of the pain.  Use ¼ teaspoon of salt in a half glass of warm tap water.

 

  • Do the same after each meal to prevent the prepared drain from getting blocked with food particles.

 

  • Try to chew on the opposite side.

 

  • Follow the directions very carefully for the medications prescribed.

 

  • DO NOT APPLY HEAT OF ANY KIND to the outside of your face.  This can cause the infection to spread very rapidly.

 

  • If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS

 

Congratulations!

 

By saving your tooth with root canal treatment, you have made a significant step towards better oral health.

 

  • Please promptly call your dentist for an appointment to place a permanent restoration (such as a crown) on your tooth. Any delay in obtaining a permanent restoration may cause the tooth to fracture or may cause the tooth to become re-infected. Please do not chew or bite on the treated tooth until it is restored by your dentist.

 

  • It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area over the next 4-6 days as your body undergoes the natural healing process. You may also feel some tenderness in your jaw, have limited opening, and tenderness to pressure/biting on your tooth.

 

  • These symptoms are temporary and usually respond very well to over-the-counter pain medications such as Ibuprofen and/or Tylenol.  As with any medication consumed, you should strictly follow the directions given by the pharmacist or the directions listed on the packaging.  In the event that narcotic medications are warranted, they may make you drowsy and caution should be exercised when operating machinery or driving a car.

 

  • Your root canal tooth may feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your treatment has been completed.  However, if you have significant pain or pressure that lasts for more than a few weeks, please contact our office immediately.

 

  • Be sure to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would.

 

  • If the opening in your tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual for a thin layer to wear off in-between appointments. However, if you think the entire filling has come out, contact our office or your dentist.

 

Please contact our office right away if you develop any of the following:

  • Visible swelling inside or outside of your mouth

  • Allergic reaction to medication, including rash, hives or itching

  • Severe pain

  • Bite feels high

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