Post-Op Care Instructions - Root Canal
Root Canal
During root canal treatment, the nerve, blood vessels, and any decay in your tooth are removed. Because the tooth loses its vascular supply, it quickly becomes brittle and subject to fracture. A ceramic restoration such as a crown or an onlay is usually recommended as soon as possible as an extensive tooth fracture will likely require extraction.
It is expected that the tooth will be sore for 2-3 days following treatment, and usually more sore the second day than the first. Discomfort and swelling are typical. Tenderness to chewing may also occur and you should chew on the other side of the mouth.
Generally, 600-800 mg Ibuprophen is all that is needed to manage post-operative discomfort that you may experience. This is available Over-The-Counter (OTC) and should be taken every six hours to minimize inflammation.
Antibiotics for infection and pain medications may be prescribed. Take them as directed. If there are any allergic reactions such as rash or difficulty breathing, discontinue use and call our office immediately or go to the nearest 24-hour medical facility.
Drinking alcohol and/or driving should be avoided while taking narcotic pain medications.
Occasionally, the tooth will supererupt, or hit harder than usual when you bite, causing excessive pain that doesn’t subside. This can easily be treated by adjusting the bite slightly.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call our office.
A temporary restoration has been placed. This is NOT the final phase of your treatment on this tooth. In most cases, a final restoration is required for long-term success of endodontic treatment.
Your dentist recommends the following final restoration on this tooth:
( ) Crown
( ) Access Closure (composite resin)
( ) Build-Up (re-evaluate at later appt)
Your restorative appointment is schedule on: ____/____/_______