After Endodontic Procedure
Home care instructions after non-surgical endodontict treatment.
When your endodontic treatment is completed, we will send you home with care instructions.
The root canal system has been sealed and covered with a temporary restoration. In the hours and days following your root canal, it is important to take measures to protect the affected area and monitor any changes you may experience such as swelling, bleeding and fever.
You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had a crown or restoration placed on the tooth. You will need to contact your general dentist to schedule an appointment. The unrestored tooth is susceptible to fracture, so you should see your dentist for a full restoration within four weeks. Otherwise, you need only practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups and cleanings.
Our office will forward a report of treatment to your general dentist.
Home care instructions after surgical endodontict treatment.
Some degree of pain and swelling is considered normal. Skin discolorations may also be experienced. Maximum swelling will occur between 2-3 days after the procedure. It is important that these instructions are followed to allow uncomplicated and rapid healing.
Day 1 Instructions
Apply an ice pack to face over the operated area 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off until bedtime in order to keep the swelling to a minimum. A bag of frozen peas placed in Ziploc bags works well.
Do not raise your lip with your fingers to inspect the treated area. The operated area should be treated with special care.
Rest for the entire day. Do not exercise for one to two days.
Stay on a soft diet and avoid hot liquids for the first 48 hours.
Refrain from brushing your teeth.
Refrain from rinsing your mouth even after meals.
Refrain from smoking for 12-18 hours.
Elevate your head on a few pillows while sleeping. This will help keep the swelling to a minimum.
Take medications as prescribed.
Day 2-7 Instructions
Discontinue the applications of ice to the face.
Begin to rinse the treated area with warm salt water 5-8 times daily. Use about 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt to 8 oz. of warm water. Make sure you soak the area each time for about 5 minutes.
Brushing your teeth is allowed except for the area that was treated surgically.
You may also rinse your mouth after brushing and after meals to keep the surgical area clean.
Get plenty of rest and resume normal intake of food, especially liquids such as fruit, juice, soup and milk.
If a periodontal pack was placed over the surgical area Do not disturb it. However, if it becomes loose and uncomfortable call the office immediately.
Take medications as prescribed.
Our office will forward a report of treatment to your general dentist.