Post Operative Instructions for Root Canal treatment

It is recommended that you take something for pain-relief within one hour of leaving our office. It is best to get the medication into your blood stream before the anesthesia begins to subside. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are very effective.

If you are experiencing discomfort, you can put an ice pack over the treated area for 30 minutes when you first get home to minimize swelling.

Please do not chew or attempt to eat on the side of your mouth that has been worked on while this area is still numb.

Whenever possible, try to chew on the opposite side from the treated tooth until you have a crown placed. Until that time, your tooth is still weak and could fracture.

Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

Please avoid crunchy or hard foods which could cause the tooth without a crown to fracture.

A putty like material may be placed in your mouth after the completion of your rooth canal treatment. If left too long, it can allow the bacteria to re-enter your treated tooth leading to further treatment. It is recommended that you return to this office no later than 3-4 weeks after root canal treatment to have your tooth prepared for a permanent restoration (filling or crown).

Delay in obtaining your final restoration (a crown unless otherwise discussed) may result in fracture and/or possible loss of tooth.