Patient Instructions
Before Endodontic Treatment
This procedure will be performed using local anesthesia. There are usually no restrictions after the procedure concerning driving or returning to work. A doctor is available for consultation at all times should a problem arise after your treatment.
Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems and any other conditions as recommended by your physician. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
Please eat a full breakfast or lunch as applicable.
If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic premedication because of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), hip, knee, cardiac or other prosthesis, or if you have rheumatic heart disease, 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 (305) 928-4200.
If your treatment is being done under I.V. sedation, please have nothing to eat or drink 8 hours prior to your surgery. You will also need an adult to drive you home.
After Endodontic Treatment
Please promptly call your dentist for an appointment to place a permanent restoration on your tooth.
Endodontic treatment has now been completed. The root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface is sealed with a temporary restoration. A follow-up restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay.
A complete report of treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist.
Included in your treatment is a follow-up examination to evaluate the progress of healing. This appointment will require only a few minutes. This routine check-up is typically completed 6 months after your treatment. Our office will send you a reminder card for you to call and schedule this appointment.
Home Care Instructions
Please promptly call your dentist for an appointment to place a permanent restoration on your tooth.
Any delay in obtaining a permanent restoration may cause the tooth to fracture or may cause the tooth to become reinfected.
It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area over the next few days as your body undergoes the natural healing process. You may feel some tenderness in your jaw from keeping it open for an extended period of time. These symptoms are temporary and usually respond very well to over-the-counter pain medications. It is important for you to follow the instructions on how to take these medications.
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. Narcotic medications, if prescribed, may make you drowsy, and caution should be exercised when operating machinery or driving a car.
Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your root canal treatment has been completed. However, if you have severe pain that lasts more than a few days, contact our office.
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.
Be sure to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would do.
If the opening in your tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual for a thin layer to wear off in between appointments. However, if you think the entire filling has come out, contact our office.
Contact our office right away if you develop any of the following:
Fever
Visible swelling inside or outside of your mouth
Allergic reaction to medication, including rash, hives or itching
Nausea
Return of original symptoms
Bite feels high or uneven