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POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR ROOT CANAL PATIENTS

Note that the following instructions are general guidelines for all root canal patients; you may have been given additional instructions specific to your situation either at your initial visit or at the time of surgery. Please follow all instructions.

  1. Pain Management:

    • After completion of your endodontic procedure you will be advised to take pain medication prior to the numbness wearing off to aid in maintaining a reasonable level of comfort

    • Taking 600-800mg of ibuprofen (Advil) can help to control the post-op swelling

    • The amount and duration of discomfort patients experience can vary from case to case; however, it is not uncommon to have some discomfort following the procedure even if none existed prior to treatment. 

    • If your discomfort isn't sufficiently controlled by your medications, or if excessive swelling develops, contact our office immediately

  2. Dietary Guidelines:

    • Avoid eating or drinking on the affected side of your mouth until the numbness wears off

    • After that, avoid chewing on the treated tooth until placement of the final, permanent restoration to decrease the chance of tooth fracture.

  3. Antibiotics:

    • Antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases, but not all.

    • If you are prescribed antibiotics, make sure you take the full course, even after symptoms have been relieved.

  4. Final Restoration:

    • Teeth treated with an endodontic procedure have been structurally compromised by the existing decay and/or restorations.  You need to have a permanent restoration placed in the tooth within a month of your root canal, if not sooner, to prevent tooth fracture.

    • Some endodontically-treated tooth can have fillings placed as a final restoration.  Most, including all molars, will require crowns for proper protection.  If the tooth already has a crown, the dentist will decide whether a new crown is necessary.


If you have any questions or concerns after hours please call our office.

Root Canal Post-Op Instructions: Text
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