Pre Operative Instructions
Treatment will be performed using local anesthesia. There are usually no restrictions after the procedure concerning driving or returning to work. You will be given a phone number to call should a problem arise after your treatment. Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, bloodthinners and any other conditions as recommended by your physician. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment. Please eat breakfast or lunch as applicable. If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic premedication, please make sure you are on the appropriate antibiotic on the day of your appointment. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
Post Treatment Care, Comfort & Questions
It is not uncommon for patients who receive endodontic (root canal) treatment to experience some discomfort or soreness after the procedure. This is usually caused by simple inflammation following treatment. Control of these symptoms is usually handled quite easily:
- First do not chew in the area of treatment - this function creates pressure on the already inflamed socket area of the tooth - chewing in the area could disturb or cause loss of the temporary filling resulting in an infection. Chewing on the unprotected tooth could also cause fracture of the tooth itself resulting in loss of the tooth.
- If the tooth becomes sore, follow the instructions of your doctor and take the medications as recommended, if necessary. Anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is often recommended, but not all patients can take these over-the-counter medications due to medical conditions or because there may be unacceptable interactions with other medications being taken.
- Do not apply ice or heat to the outside of the face unless specifically directed. Even though some discomfort is expected, severe pain and/or facial swelling is not normal, and the office should be contacted so that we can better control your condition.
One of our doctors will be on call to address your concerns. Please use the phone numbers provided to you at the time of your endodontic treatment. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our aim is to make your endodontic experience as efficient and comfortable as possible.