POST OPERATIVE ROOT CANAL INSTRUCTIONS
The root canals in your tooth have been cleaned and medicated or filled. Your body must have time to repair the damages caused by the original irritant or trauma.
It is normal for your tooth to be sore for two or three days after treatment. It may actually become more sensitive on the second day. Tenderness to biting may persist for up to several weeks following treatment, but will gradually improve with time.
If I have given you a prescription for pain, please take it as directed. You may also take over the counter pain relievers such as Advil, Tylenol, or aspirin as directed on the package. Please read the product label or consult your physician if you are unfamiliar with taking these drugs.
Swelling or pain, which is not controlled by the pain medications, indicates a possible problem. Please contact our office if you experience these symptoms, especially any swelling in or around the area treated.
You may eat or drink following the root canal treatment being careful to avoid hurting yourself if you are still numb.
The treatment of your tooth is NOT complete until a final restoration or filling is placed in the tooth. I have only placed a temporary filling in the root canal access of your tooth. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO GET THE PERMANENT FILLING PLACED IN THE TOOTH OR YOUR ROOT CANAL WILL FAIL.
A report, including necessary x-rays, will be sent to your dentist to advise him/her that your root canal has been completed.
Avoid biting hard on your tooth until the permanent restoration has been placed. Your tooth is in a weakened condition until you see your general dentist. I recommend a “crown” or “cap” as the final restoration for your tooth, however you should discuss your treatment options with your dentist, as he/she know what is best for you. Please protect your investment with a timely restoration.
Although root canal treatment is highly successful, a small percentage of patients (5% to 10%) will fail to respond to treatment, and will have persistent evidence of disease, pain, swelling, or puss draining from the area. These patients may require additional treatment to save the tooth. Sometimes a follow up visit may be required to evaluate the status of healing, but it is not always required. If required, an appointment will be scheduled on the day the treatment is completed.