If you experience an emergency, outside business hours, please contact Dr Taylor at the number provided on the Home Care paper. Please leave a voice message with your name, call back number and your concern. We will return your call promptly. Have your pharmacy phone number available just in case we need to call in a prescription.

Following the Completion of Root Canal Therapy

We are delighted that you have chosen our office for your endodontic treatment. Thank you for allowing us to provide your care. We sincerely hope you have had a pleasant experience.

Once your root canal therapy has been completed you should review and follow these post-operative instructions.

1. You may experience discomfort and tenderness for several days or more. Although the tooth is no longer “alive”, the ligaments that secure the tooth in the bone remain living and may cause the tooth area to be sore following treatment.
2. Due to the tension on tissues and the increase in fluid volume in the treated area, bruising (which can occasionally be dramatic), and minor gum laceration may occur. This is transient and should be resolved within 2 weeks.
3. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your primary dentist places a permanent restoration, this should occur within 3 weeks or less and not restoring the tooth within this time can cause the root canal to fail.
4. Over-the-counter pain medication is highly effective when used appropriately. If a prescription medication has been given, please take it as directed by Dr. Taylor.

Dosages for Over-the-Counter Analgesics

Ibuprofen [Advil / Motrin]: 3-4 tables (200 mg each) totaling 600-800 mg every 6 hours

 Tylenol: 2 Extra-Strength (500 mg) tablets every 6 hours

Please, Tylenol only if you are NSAID or Ibuprofen sensitive

*** These medications can be used concurrently for maximum relief ***

5. If you develop significant pain or swelling or other unexpected symptoms such as numbness / tingling, bleeding or temporary filling issues please contact the emergency number below or out office during office hours (Monday – Thursday 8am-4pm).
6. Although the root canal system is permanently sealed, the opening made in your tooth to perform the treatment is sealed with a temporary material. This will last approximately 3 weeks. A permanent restoration is required to ensure the success of treatment. Please schedule an appointment with your general dentist as soon as possible for placement of a definitive restoration within 3 weeks. Failure to complete this crucial step may result in the need for additional treatment or result in loss of the treated tooth.

 

Thank you, again, for allowing us to provide your endodontic care. If you have any questions or problems, please call our office Monday – Thursday 8am – 4pm at (541) 200-0321.