Home Care Instructions
After Root Canal Treatment
* Usually the outer surface of the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling. It is normal for this filling to wear away and feel different to your tongue. It is nothing to be concerned about.
* PLEASE CONTACT YOUR DENTIST PROMPTLY TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO RESTORE THE TOOTH PERMANENTLY. (A delay in obtaining the final filling or crown may result in re-infection or fracture of the tooth, which could mean the root canal treatment would need to be redone or the tooth could be lost.)
* The tooth and gums in that area may be tender for several days or even weeks.
* We recommend taking Ibuprofen and Tylenol consistently for the first 3 days following treatment. Then take them as needed after that.
– Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc..) = 600 mg every 6 hours
– Tylenol = up to 650 mg every 6 hours
* You may want to wait until the numbness wears off before eating. You can drink immediately.
* Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth as much as you can until the permanent restoration is completed.
* In the event that pain or swelling should become severe, please call our office. (623) 544-6900
* We will send a report to inform your dentist that your root canal treatment has been completed.
After Surgical Treatment
* A small amount of bleeding is not unusual after surgery. In case this is bothersome to you, we have provided some gauze which you can moisten, fold, and place against the gums for 30 minutes. A small amount of oozing may continue for several hours or even a few days after surgery.
* Swelling is a normal event. Light pressure can reduce the amount of swelling and speed healing. Push lightly on the outside of your face over the area where the sutures are located for 15 seconds every hour on the hour the day of surgery. Applying cold on the face over the surgical site the day of the surgery may reduce swelling. Ice will only be beneficial the day of surgery. After the first day, warm salt water rinses are most effective.
* Physical exertion or exercise should be avoided during the first 24 hours after surgery because this may result in increased bleeding, swelling, and discomfort.
* Take care of the surgical site: brush it carefully after the first day using water and soft-bristled brush provided, brushing gently from the gums toward the tooth surface. Clean tissue heals faster. You can use your normal toothbrush and toothpaste in the other areas. DO NOT FLOSS or use a water-irrigating instrument or electric toothbrush in the surgical area for one week.
* Medications: we recommend taking 600 mg of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) every 6 hours for the first 2-3 days following treatment. If you are unable to take Ibuprofen or need additional pain control, take 1000 mg of Extra Strength Tylenol every 6 hours for the first 2-3 days following treatment.
* Your diet during the first 24 hours should be limited to clear liquids and soft foods. The more movement of the tissue during the first 24 hours, the greater the chance for continued bleeding and delayed healing. Alcohol, carbonated beverages, and smoking should be avoided because they may interfere with healing. Avoid drinking with a straw, spitting forcefully, or causing any suction in the mouth because this may disturb the blood clotting mechanism. Work up to normal foods gradually.
* Sutures are placed to aid in holding the tissue together and down to the bone, thus speeding healing. The tissues will be tender for some time. Keep the sutures clean with the brush provided. Do not be alarmed if one comes loose. Snip it off with find scissors. If in doubt, contact the office.
* Careful attention to and compliance with these post-operative instructions will add to your comfort and hasten recovery. If you have questions contact the office at the number listed below. Your speedy and uneventful recovery is our main concern.
If you have any questions, please call our office at