Root Canal Treatment Post-Op Instructions

1. Your tooth may be tender for several days following treatment. OTC anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen or Advil are helpful in resolving post-operative tenderness and should be taken until the tooth feels better. Extra-strength Tylenol is also an excellent pain reliever if stomach upset or allergy is a problem with the other drugs. We recommend taking three (3) to four (4) 200 mg tablets of Ibuprofen (total 600 - 800 mg) every six hours. For additional relief you can take two (2) 325 mg Regular-strength Tylenol (total 650 mg) every six hours along with the Ibuprofen. If your discomfort is not relieved by these medications, please call our office for further advice.

 

2. If you were given prescription medications, be sure to take them as directed. 

 

3. If a permanent restoration was placed, usually no further treatment is required. 

 

4. If a temporary filling was placed in your tooth, you need to see your General Dentist as soon as possible to have a permanent restoration placed. Your tooth is fragile until it is permanently restored, so avoid heavy chewing on that side of your mouth. If the temporary filling should come out, it is very important to have it resealed because bacterial contamination can cause root canal failure requiring re-treatment. On back teeth (molars and bicuspids) a crown is usually placed to protect the tooth from potential fracture. 

 

5. If your root canal treatment was not completed today, a temporary filling was placed and you will need to return to our office for another appointment to complete treatment. 

 

6. Your comfort is our main concern. If problems or questions arise, do not hesitate to call our office at 503-231-0882. We are here Monday through Friday from 7 AM until 5 PM. If you have a dental emergency after our regular office hours, please call Dr. Edgar on his cell phone at: 503-781-0667.