What To Expect After Root Canal Therapy

1. We have created an environment for your body to heal itself. During the healing process, it is not unusual to have postoperative soreness for several days up to a week following root canal (endodontic) therapy. Cleaning the root canals may cause inflammation (your body’s natural reaction to the treatment) of the tissue surrounding the tooth.
2. You may have been given a prescription for this soreness. If not, simply taking over-the-counter analgesics should control this discomfort. For patients not allergic to anti-inflammatory medications or aspirin, we recommend 3 Advil (ibuprofen) 3 times a day or 2  Aleve (Naproxen Sodium) every 8-12 hours for 3 days. It is important not to let these medications wear off between doses. They are more effective if taken consistently. These medications can be discontinued when there is no more discomfort.
3. Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed to help control infection. Please take all medications as directed. Please complete the entire prescription as infection could otherwise reoccur.
4. Rinsing with salt water 4 times a day can help with swelling and keep the area clean. Continue as needed. Mix 2 tablespoons of salt to 1 glass of warm water.
5. Do not chew on the side of the mouth where the tooth is being treated at least until the completion of the permanent filling. Please be especially careful not to chew hard foods as they may irritate the area or can cause the tooth to crack. Please continue normal oral hygiene. Brushing normally will not harm the area.
6. Slight swelling after the root canal therapy may occur and is normal. If the swelling gets worse or pain increases call the office.
7. After the root canal (endodontic) treatment is complete it is now your responsibility to make an appointment to see your family dentist as soon as possible for permanent restoration of your tooth. Although the roots have been permanently sealed, the surface filling is only temporary and must be replaced. Often, teeth that have been treated by root canal therapy are heavily filled, patched, or weakened by decay. Your dentist may recommend a crown (cap) as the best restoration to adequately protect your tooth from future breakage.
8. Your tooth will heal in time. However, if any unusual problems should occur during the course of endodontic treatment or if pain medications are not controlling your pain, please call 781-863-2453 and specify that you were seen by Dr. Sarraf.

Before Appointment:

Please STOP taking ASPIRIN, BLOOD THINNERS AND VITAMIN E seven days prior to surgery. Take medication as prescribed. A non-aspirin pain reliever, such as Motrin, should be on hand for after the surgery if needed. Please have a good meal prior to your surgery appointment.

After Appointment:

Do NOT lift or pull lip to examine surgical area, because repeated irritation may delay healing! No strenuous exercise or heavy lifting within 24 hours after surgery appointment . Slight swelling and skin discoloration is NORMAL. In order to minimize swelling, apply an ice pack over the surgical area with gentle pressure, 20 minutes on -10 minutes off, for period of 3-4 hours and do not exceed 6 hours.

Adequate food and fluid intake following surgery is most important. Soft cold foods are best. Suggestions: ice cream, Jell-O, pudding, and yogurt. Avoid: crusty, hard and hot foods.

A soft toothbrush may be carefully used in the areas of the mouth that were not involved in the surgical site. Avoid rinsing during the first 24 hours (Do continue Peridex rinses as prescribed). Sleep with your head slightly elevated the first night following surgery. DO NOT SMOKE for the first 24 hours following the surgery appointment.

Any unusual symptoms such as excessive swelling, bleeding, or elevated temperature should be reported immediately, our telephone is answered day and night!

Slight oozing or bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours. If bleeding persist, please call. Do not apply heat under any circumstances. Mild discomfort following surgery is normal. If you have been given a prescription, take as directed. Please call the morning after the surgery to report your progress.

Reminders: Do not take any Aspirin or medications containing aspirin and notify our office if any problems develop with any of the medications prescribed.

Women: If any antibiotics have been prescribed and you are taking Birth Control Pills alternate birth control methods must be used for at least one month.