After Completion of Endodontic Treatment:
General Instructions
Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. Do not chew food on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist. You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen. Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed. NOTE: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, or should swelling develop, please contact us immediately. The office telephone is answered day and night. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available. If you call our office after hours, please specify that you are having an emergency. (e.g. swelling or extreme discomfort). the doctor on call will be paged immediately. Typically, you will receive a call back within 20 minutes. If you do not receive a call back in that time, please call and explain the situation.
Endodontic treatment has now been completed. The root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface is sealed with a temporary restoration. A follow-up restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay. Please telephone your restorative dentist for an appointment. A complete report of treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. Included in your treatment is a follow-up examination to evaluate the progress of healing. This appointment will require only a few minutes and no additional fee will be charged for the first check-up visit.
Post-operative Instructions After Endodontic Surgery
To Control Swelling
Place an ice pack or frozen vegetables in bag over the affected area 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off and repeat for the balance of the day. Ice therapy reduces swelling and discomfort. Only use ice for the first 24 hours after surgery.
- Avoid hot foods or drinks.
- Keep your head elevated the first two nights after surgery by sleeping on two pillows.
To Control Bleeding
- Do not rinse for 4-6 hours after surgery.
- Avoid medications that promote excessive bleeding e.g. aspirin, anticoagulants.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 days.
To Control Discomfort
Discomfort may be more severe especially if surgery has been extensive. Two hours after surgery take 2 ibuprofen (Advil) plus 1 extra-strength Tylenol and repeat every 4 hours for 48 hours. If you cannot take ibuprofen, take two extra-strength Tylenol every 4 hours for 48 hours.
If this regimen does not relieve the discomfort, please fill the prescription given to you or call the office.
Diet
A cold liquid diet is recommended for the balance of the day (e.g. milkshakes, ice-cream, yogurt, nutriment, instant breakfast etc.) Avoid hot food and drink.
Oral Hygiene
It is important to keep your mouth clean. Brush and floss those teeth where surgery was not performed. DO NOT BRUSH in the surgical area.
Rinse gently starting before bedtime the day of surgery. Thereafter, rinse twice a day with a teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water for 30 seconds and twice per day with an anti-bacterial mouthwash (e.g. Listerine) for 30 seconds.
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