Post-Root Canal Home Care
- Be careful while you are numb! It is very easy to bite your lip or cheek – we recommend you not eat until you can feel the inside of your mouth again, usually within an hour to an hour-and-a-half of treatment. Drinking is fine, but avoid very hot beverages to prevent scalding.
- In order to protect the tooth against fracture during or immediately after treatment, avoid chewing on the tooth until the final restoration has been placed by your general dentist.
- The tooth and the adjacent supporting tissues (gums) may be tender for a few days after treatment. This mild discomfort is normal, and may be relieved by Advil, Tylenol, Aleve, etc.
- Occasionally, moderate to severe discomfort may occur. If medication has been prescribed, use according to direction. If you do not have a prescription for pain medication, you may call the office.
- Some swelling is possible within 2-3 days after treatment. This is normal; however call the office if more than a slight puffiness occurs, or it lasts for more than 3-4 days.
- Following treatment, the tooth will be brittle and subject to fracture. A restoration (either a filling or a crown with post and core) will be necessary to prevent the fracture and restore the tooth to function. Failure to follow through with the restoration may result in fracture, and / or possible loss of the tooth. We strongly recommend you see your dentist for this final restoration within 2-3 weeks of completion of your endodontic treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call the office at Medford Office Phone Number 781-391-5100.