Post Operative Instructions - Root Canal

Pain and Discomfort Management

It is normal to experience some discomfort following your root canal, especially in the first few days after treatment. The level of discomfort varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the condition of the tooth.

• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) are typically sufficient to manage mild to moderate discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions on the label, or take the medication as directed by our office.
• Prescription Pain Medication: If prescribed, take the pain medication as instructed. If your discomfort becomes more intense or doesn’t improve after a few days, please contact our office.
• Swelling: Mild swelling around the treated tooth is common. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Be sure to give your skin a break between applications to avoid frostbite.

Managing Numbness

Local anesthesia is used during your root canal to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues, and this numbness may last for a few hours after your procedure.

• Avoid Biting Your Cheek or Tongue: Until the numbness wears off, avoid chewing or biting your cheek, tongue, or lip to prevent accidental injury.
• Avoid Hot Foods or Drinks: Do not consume hot foods or drinks until the numbness has completely worn off to avoid burns or discomfort.

Oral Hygiene Care

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial after a root canal to ensure the area heals properly and to avoid infection.

• Brushing: Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the treated area for the first 24 hours to give the tissue time to heal. After that, you can resume normal brushing. Be extra gentle around the treated tooth to prevent irritation.
• Flossing: Avoid flossing in the treated area for the first 24 hours. Afterward, you can resume your regular flossing routine, but be cautious around the treated tooth.
• Rinsing: If prescribed, use an antimicrobial mouth rinse as directed. Otherwise, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (a half teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) to help keep the area clean and reduce swelling.

Avoid Chewing on the Treated Tooth

• For the first 24-48 hours after your root canal, avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth. This helps protect the tooth and the temporary filling, which may have been placed to seal the treated area until a permanent crown can be placed.
• Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soups in the first few days to avoid placing pressure on the treated tooth.
• Temporary Filling Care: If a temporary filling was placed, avoid chewing directly on that tooth until your permanent restoration (crown) is placed. The temporary filling is designed to protect the treated tooth but can be easily dislodged if you bite down too hard.

Be Mindful of the Temporary Discomfort

• After a root canal, it’s common to experience some mild to moderate discomfort or tenderness around the treated tooth, particularly when chewing or touching the area. This is a sign that the tissue is healing, and the discomfort should subside within a few days. However, if you experience severe pain or the discomfort worsens after a few days, please contact our office immediately.
• Sensitivity: Some patients experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after a root canal, but this sensitivity typically goes away within a few weeks. If you notice persistent or worsening sensitivity, it could indicate an issue that requires attention.

Follow-Up Appointments

• Root canal therapy usually requires a follow-up visit to ensure the tooth is healing properly and to place a permanent restoration (crown) if necessary. Your follow-up appointment typically occurs within 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
• Permanent Restoration: If a crown is needed, it is essential to have it placed as soon as possible to restore the tooth’s full function and protect it from further damage. Without a permanent crown, the tooth is more vulnerable to fracture.
• Signs of Infection: Although rare, infection can develop after a root canal. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or fever, please contact our office immediately. These may be signs of an infection requiring further treatment.

Diet and Hydration

• Proper nutrition and hydration are important for your recovery. Eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water to promote healing.
• Avoid Hard, Sticky, or Crunchy Foods: These types of foods can damage your temporary filling and may cause unnecessary stress on the treated tooth.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important, but avoid acidic drinks such as citrus juices, which can irritate the treated area.

What to Expect in the Days Following Treatment

Most patients report feeling better within a few days after the procedure, with any discomfort gradually subsiding. However, it is normal to feel some tenderness or mild discomfort around the treated area for up to a week, especially when chewing or touching the tooth. If symptoms persist or worsen, please contact us as soon as possible.

When to Contact Us

Please contact our office if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication.
• Persistent or worsening swelling.
• Fever or signs of infection.
• Any unusual changes in your symptoms.

Our team is available to address your concerns and ensure your recovery process is as comfortable as possible.

Conclusion

Following these post-operative instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery after your root canal procedure. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to Greater Dental Health. We’re here to support you through every step of your recovery.

Thank you for trusting us. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile!