Post-Operative Instructions for Root Canal Therapy

One treatment is complete, take an analgesic before your numbness wears off to maintain a good level of comfort. Avoid eating or drinking anything on the affected side until your numbness is gone. Chewing or attempting to eat on the affected side could damage the treatment.

Discomfort

Soreness and slight discomfort is completely normal during the first few days, or even weeks after your treatment. This can happen because of the existing infection and inflammation of your tooth ligaments and gums, plus the manipulation of the tooth during treatment. Your gums may also feel tender when biting or chewing. It’s also regular to feel some soreness in the jaw from keeping it open for an extended time. These symptoms are temporary, and they will gradually wear off after about 7 to 10 days.

To manage your discomfort, take medication exactly as we directed, even if all of your symptoms have disappeared. During the first week, rinsing your mouth with a mixture of 1 teaspoon in a cup of warm water ill promote healing and relieve slight pain. You should also resume your regular brushing and flossing.

Temporary Filling

Between your dental appointments, a temporary filling or crown is placed to protect your tooth. During this time, please avoid consuming hard or sticky food, and also try to chew on the other side of your mouth to keep the temporary filling safe and secure. Notably, it’s fairly common for a small bit of your filling to wear away or break off, however if the entire restoration comes out, please call our dental office right away to get a replacement.

Bite Adjustment

Call our dental office immediately if your bite feels uneven due to your temporary crown or filling. Your tooth may continue to feel different from other in your smile, but you will quickly grow comfortable with your restoration. If you have intense pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, don’t hesitate to call us right away.

Final Restorations

Call our dental office as soon as possible if we do not already have an appointment set for your final restoration. An endodontically treated tooth is weakened due to previous damage or decay, which is why it’s necessary for the tooth to get additional protection with a custom-made dental crown or onlay. This will strengthen the tooth but also protect the root canal filling from potential contamination. If you delay getting your final restoration, you’re putting your tooth at risk of fracture, loss, or retreatment of the root canal.

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact our dental office to speak with a team member.