Post Treatment Care Instructions

New City Endodontics PC

Post-Treatment Care

What should I expect after endodontic treatment?

The root canal system inside your tooth is thoroughly cleaned, and the irritated tissue and bacteria that have caused you need a root canal gone.

It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area in the next few days your body experiences the natural healing process. You may also feel some pain in the jaw to keep it open for an extended period of time. These symptoms are temporary and usually respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers. It is important that you follow the instructions for taking these medications. Remember narcotic medications, if prescribed, can cause drowsiness, and caution should be exercised in handling dangerous machinery or driving a car after taking them.

Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after root canal treatment is completed. However, if you have pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, contact your endodontist.

Guidelines for post-treatment care

• Do not eat anything until the numbness in your mouth disappears. This will prevent the cheek or tongue biting.
• Do not chew or bite on the treated until it is restored by the dentist.
• Be sure to brush and floss as you normally would.
• If the opening in the tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual that a thin layer to disappear in-between appointments. However, if you think that filling all went, contact your endodontist.

Contact your endodontist immediately if any of the following:

• A swelling visible inside or outside of his mouth;

• An allergic reaction to medication, including rash, hives or itching (nausea is not an allergic reaction);

• A return of the original symptoms, or

• Your bite feels uneven.

Taking Care of Your Tooth

Root canal treatment is only one step in the return of your tooth to full function. A proper final restoration of teeth is very important to ensure long-term success.
Contact your dentist within two weeks to make your next appointment. If the tooth being treated in more than one visit to an endodontist, do not return to your dentist for the final restoration until the root canal treatment is completed.

What does the future hold?

The tooth that has had an appropriate root canal treatment, followed by adequate restoration, can last as long as your other natural teeth. After the tooth has been restored, just practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, regular checkups and cleanings.

Your dentist or endodontist may perform an x-ray of the tooth periodically to ensure that its cure. Occasionally, a tooth that has undergone endodontic treatment does not heal or the pain continues. Sometimes months, the tooth may become painful or diseased or even years after successful treatment. Often, when this happens, repeat the endodontic procedure can save the tooth.