Root Canal Recovery

Root Canal Therapy Recovery Tips

After your root canal visit you may experience a few days of discomfort specially to chewing. Every tooth is different, and the degree of discomfort depends on the prior condition of the tooth (amount of infection/inflammation).

For mild to moderate pain or discomfort avoid chewing on the tooth and use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin), naproxen (Aleve), Tylenol, or aspirin. Use additional prescription painkillers as directed if necessary. Contact the office if the medications are not providing adequate relief.

In some cases, significant pain and/or swelling can develop after the appointment with infected teeth. If you experience a flare-up, please call the office.

Your tooth has been sealed with a temporary filling. It takes approximately 1 hour for this material to harden so do not chew on it during this time. Temporary fillings tend to wear down after several days and this is usually not a problem. If the filling is completely lost, please call the office.

If your root canal therapy has been completed, it is necessary for you to return to your regular dentist for the permanent restoration of the tooth of the tooth. It is recommended that your follow-up with your dentist within 4 weeks.
If your root canal has not been completed be sure to follow up and complete treatment to prevent unnecessary complications.

Please contact our office if you have any other questions or concerns.

Endodontic Surgery Recovery Tips

Postoperative care is very important following surgery and recovery may be delayed if instructions are not carefully adhered to.

Physical activity

Avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day. Smoking and alcohol will delay wound healing and should be avoided for 48 hours after surgery. No vigorous exercise for 48 hours.

Swelling and bleeding

To minimize swelling and oozing, apply ice packs to the face on the area of your face closest to the surgical site. Cold compress should be applied 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours following surgery.

Swelling is normal following surgery and cold compresses will help minimize it. Swelling may increase 48-72 hours before diminishing. Swelling may be worse in the morning and usually subsides as the day continues.

Slight bleeding or oozing may discolor saliva up to 24 hours after surgery. This is normal. Bruising may occur which will resolve on its own in a few days. Some numbness in the surgical area is normal and will disappear with time.

Proper diet

It is essential that you maintain a healthy diet following surgery. Nutrients in your system will aid in the healing process. For the first 2 days after surgery eat softer foods and drink plenty of fluids.

Oral hygiene

Do not disturb the sutures and surgical area by pulling the lip or cheek to inspect the site. Sutures will need to be removed in 5-7 days; an appointment will be scheduled before you leave the office. You will be asked to visit the office for a short examination 6 weeks and then 3 months following surgery to check on the healing process.

Maintain oral hygiene. After 24 hours rinse gently with warm saltwater, 1 teaspoon salt to 12 oz water. Brush your teeth normally but do not brush around the surgical site until after your post-operative visit.

Medications

You may be given prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics. Be sure to take medications as prescribed.
Should any complications or problems arise do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

Contacting Our Office During Root Canal Recovery

If you have any concerns or are experiencing pain that is increasing as time goes by, you may contact our office. A doctor is on call 24 hours a day to assist you in case of an extreme emergency.