Root Canal Therapy Post-Operative Instructions

We hope your experience at Eastlake Endodontics has been a pleasant one. Following root canal therapy, some discomfort is normal and is part of the healing process. Depending on the condition of your tooth before treatment—including the amount of inflammation or infection—and your body's natural healing response, the level of discomfort can vary from person to person.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort for a few days after treatment. It is often easier to control discomfort if pain medication is taken before the anesthesia wears off. Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, we recommend beginning Ibuprofen or Tylenol® as directed before the onset of pain.

After Your Root Canal

Please follow these instructions after your treatment:

• Schedule an appointment with your general dentist for your permanent restoration (usually a crown) as soon as possible.
• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has received its permanent restoration. The temporary filling is not intended for long-term chewing forces.
• Mild tenderness when biting or chewing is common for several days and may occasionally last a few weeks.
• Brush your teeth normally. You may floss, but slide the floss out to the side rather than lifting it straight up to avoid dislodging the temporary filling.
• The temporary filling may wear down or come out before your permanent restoration is placed. If this occurs, please contact our office as soon as possible so we can replace it.
• Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• Contact our office immediately if you experience:
  • Significant or increasing swelling
  • Fever
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Worsening pain
• Although root canal therapy has a very high success rate, healing takes time. Your treated tooth should continue to be monitored by your general dentist during routine dental examinations.

Managing Dental Pain

Mild Pain

• Ibuprofen 400 mg

If pain persists:

Moderate Pain

• Ibuprofen 600 mg

If pain continues:

Moderate to Severe Pain

• Ibuprofen 400–600 mg
• PLUS
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) 500–1,000 mg

Always follow your doctor's instructions and do not exceed the maximum recommended daily dosage for any medication.

Helpful Tips

• Take Ibuprofen with food to help prevent stomach upset.
• Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of any medication.
• If your pain worsens, swelling develops, or your symptoms are not improving, contact our office immediately.

Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns after your treatment, please don't hesitate to contact Eastlake Endodontics.

Phone: (619) 621-5000