What To Expect Following Root Canal Therapy
Instructions for a Smooth, Comfortable Recovery.
Your endodontic (root canal) treatment is now complete. Taking an analgesic before the numbness wears off may help maintain an acceptable comfort level. Please wait to eat or drink on the affected side until after the numbness has worn away. Please do not chew or attempt to eat on the affected side while you are still numb.
Discomfort
Discomfort or soreness in the area is normal for a few days (or even weeks) and will range from mild to severe. This occurs because of existing infection and inflammation of the gum and tooth ligaments as well as the manipulation of the tooth during treatment. The gums may be sore and the tooth is often tender to biting or chewing. Over the counter analgesics such as ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, aspirin, Motrin, Excedrin, and Tylenol should relieve most of the discomfort.
We recommend 600 mg. of ibuprofen and 1 extra strength Tylenol together every 6 hours as needed. The maximum that can be taken is 800 mg. of ibuprofen with 1000 mg. of Tylenol every 6 hours. Rinsing with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per glass of warm water) will help. Discomfort in the area in no way affects the successful outcome of treatment.
Temporary Filling and Final Restoration
A temporary filling has been placed in the entry made into your tooth. It is normal for a thin layer of the temporary filling to be worn away between appointments. An unusual taste can be expected. Should all of the temporary filling come out, please call our office. It is important that your temporary filling stays intact until the placement of a permanent restoration.
If an appointment with your dentist to place a final restoration has not been made, please schedule this appointment promptly. Your dentist will evaluate the tooth and determine the appropriate final restoration to protect the tooth from potential fracture, decay and/or contamination of the root canal filling. Delay may result in possible loss of the tooth or require retreatment of the root canal.
Post-Treatment Care Guidelines
Avoid Chewing on the Treated Side
Do not chew or eat on the treated side while numbness is present. Chew carefully on the treated side and avoid hard foods until your permanent restoration is in place.
Pain Management
Take 600 mg of ibuprofen with 1 extra-strength Tylenol every 6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 800 mg of ibuprofen and 1000 mg of Tylenol per 6-hour period. Take all prescribed medications as directed.
Temporary Filling Care
It is normal for a thin layer of the temporary filling to wear down between appointments. If the entire filling comes out, call our office promptly so we can protect the tooth.
Schedule Your Final Restoration
Contact your general dentist promptly to schedule placement of your permanent crown or restoration. Delaying this step can put the tooth at risk of fracture, decay, or retreatment.
Follow-Up Appointment
A periodic recall examination may be recommended to confirm that healing is progressing well. If we advise you to return for a recall appointment, we will contact you directly.
Questions About Your Recovery?
If you have any concerns following your root canal treatment, do not hesitate to contact Transcend Endodontics at (504) 261-0935. Dr. Ai Tran and our team are here to support you through every step of your recovery.