Below are instructions for before and after your visit for endodontic treatment.
Before 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, please refer to your post op instructions for your doctor’s phone numbers. .
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, as the anesthetic may take 2-4 hours to resolve, and we’d prefer you to have eaten.
If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic premedication because of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), heart murmur, hip, knee, cardiac or other prosthesis, or if you have rheumatic heart disease, please make sure you have taken the appropriate antibiotics on the day of your appointment. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
Home Care Instructions
After Endodontic treatment has been completed, the root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface(the top of the tooth) is sealed with a temporary restoration. A permanent restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay. Please telephone your regular dentist for an appointment. A complete report of treatment including all x-rays will be sent to your dentist.
Post Operative Discomfort
Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be tender for several days as a result of our 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 root canal therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration. You must call your regular dentist and schedule and appointment. Regular dental hygiene including brushing and flossing is necessary and recommended.
Discomfort will be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled by these medications, or should swelling develop, please contact us immediately. The office telephone is answered during the day only. You will have been given our after hours contact numbers. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available. Please note, if you have Caller ID Blocking on your phone, please unblock your call for any after-hours emergency calls. Thank You.