What To Expect Following Endodontic Surgery
Instructions for a Smooth, Comfortable Recovery.
Your endodontic 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.
Bleeding
Some oozing may continue for a short time and may even persist until the next day. Maintain gentle pressure by rolling up a piece of gauze from the extra gauze that was sent home with you and gently inserting it between your cheek and gums by the tooth that was treated today. If bleeding persists, place a damp tea bag wrapped in gauze in the same manner.
Do not spit, use a straw, rinse, or smoke for 24 hours following this surgery.
Ice and Rinsing
Apply the provided ice pack to your cheek or jaw overlying the treated area for the next 4-6 hours, 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. This will help minimize swelling during the initial recovery period.
Avoid rinsing for 24 hours from the time of this surgery. You may then begin rinsing with a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. If prescribed, use any mouthwash that has been recommended — this may also be applied to the area with Q-tips. Continue rinses until the sutures have been removed.
Post-Surgical Care Guidelines
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 1,000 mg of Tylenol every 6 hours. If antibiotics and/or pain medications were prescribed, please take them as directed.
Diet
Avoid eating anything hard or hot today. You may resume a normal diet tomorrow. If you prefer, or if more comfortable, try soft food and liquids for several days.
Oral Hygiene
Tooth brushing should begin the day following surgery, with extra care taken not to brush against the gum tissues in the area of the surgery. Flossing may be done gently in the area. Do not use a Water-Pik near the surgical site until after your post-surgery visit at our office, as this may cause bleeding and impair healing.
Swelling and Bruising
Discoloration and puffiness of the skin and gums around the area of surgery is normal. The most swelling is expected on the second post-operative day and may last for several days. Do not be alarmed by these changes.
Follow-Up Appointment
Dr. Tran will schedule a post-surgery visit to remove your sutures and confirm that healing is progressing well. If you have any questions or concerns at any point during recovery, do not hesitate to contact our office.
Questions About Your Recovery?
If you have any concerns following your endodontic surgery, 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.