Home Care Instructions

Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. Do not chew food on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist. You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen. Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed.

NOTE: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, or should swelling develop, please contact this office immediately.

A post-operative report is being sent to your dentist informing him/her that endodontic treatment has been completed. Occasionally, we are able to complete the final restoration on the tooth and there is no need to see your general dentist for any additional treatment. In most cases; however, the opening in your tooth has been sealed temporarily. If we have not done so already, PLEASE TELEPHONE YOUR DENTIST PROMPTLY FOR AN APPOINTMENT TO PLACE A FINAL RESTORATION. We recommend you set up an appointment with your dentist within the next 2-4 weeks. Your dentist is best qualified to determine how to restore your tooth. Frequently it is necessary for this tooth to receive additional protection in the form of a full coverage restoration (onlay or crown/cap). This will protect the tooth against fracture or infection. Delay in obtaining a final restoration may result in a fracture, failure of the root canal or even possible loss of the tooth.

The office telephone is answered day and night. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.