Post-Operative Instructions Following Root Canal Procedure
Congratulations on successfully completing your root canal procedure! We hope you had a positive experience, despite the circumstances. This document provides essential information regarding the postoperative period following your root canal treatment. Please adhere to the instructions outlined below and contact us promptly if you encounter any questions or concerns.
Immediate Post-Operative Instructions
* Refrain from Eating or Drinking: Avoid consuming any food or beverages for the next thirty minutes.
* Avoid Tongue Pressure: Refrain from attempting to feel around your tooth with your tongue. A temporary filling has been placed, and it requires approximately thirty minutes to harden.
Post-Operative Follow-Up
* **Permanent Restoration:** A permanent filling and crown will be placed on your tooth after the root canal procedure. Failure to adhere to this instruction may result in tooth fracture or the development of new decay beneath the temporary filling, potentially compromising the success of the root canal. You will be responsible for any associated costs.
* **Avoid Hard Objects:** Refrain from using the tooth to bite down on hard objects such as peanuts, bones, ice, or any otherpotentially damaging substances until the permanent restoration is complete. This precaution is necessary to prevent tooth fracture.
* **Temporary Filling Behaviour:** Temporary fillings may experience slight “divots” during use. It is uncommon for them to completely fall out. If the temporary filling does dislodge, contact us promptly. If it occurs during our office hours, place a cotton dab in the tooth until you can schedule an appointment.
Post-Operative Discomfort
Mild discomfort in the affected area is normal following the root canal procedure. It is customary for the tooth to experience discomfort for two to three days after today’s treatment. In some instances, the tooth and surrounding tissues may remain tender for several weeks post-treatment.
Pain Management
The three most prevalent reasons for pain after a root canal procedure are:
* **Inflammation:** The body’s natural response to the procedure can cause inflammation in the affected area.
* **Nerve Sensitivity:** The root canal procedure can temporarily alter the sensitivity of nerves in the tooth.
* **Medications:** The medications used during the procedure may have side effects that include pain.
**Post-Operative Pain Management**
**Sore Jaw Joint:** Prolonged mouth opening can cause jaw joint discomfort.
**Sore Muscle:** The injection site may experience muscle soreness.
**Sore Gum:** Rubber dam placement can lead to gum irritation.
**Pain Management:** Over-the-counter medication prescribed by our dentist is typically sufficient to alleviate discomfort. However, if pain persists, please contact our office for further assistance.
Important Instructions
1. **Prescription Medications:** Take all prescribed medications as directed.
2. **Oral Hygiene:** Floss and brush your teeth as usual, unless advised otherwise.
**Flare-Ups:** Approximately 5% of root canal cases may experience significant pain, known as “flare-ups.” These flare-ups are commonly associated with severely infected teeth, irritated teeth, or those with a history of previous treatment. Occasionally, they can occur randomly, even in patients with multiple previous root canals without complications.
**Symptoms of Flare-Ups:** Moderate to severe pain, swelling (as large as a golf ball), bruising, throbbing, and general discomfort typically begin a few hours after treatment and can persist for 2 to 3 days.
**Seek Medical Attention:** If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact our office promptly. We will provide appropriate treatment options, which may include antibiotics, stronger pain medication, a steroid, or additional office visits.
**Mandatory Follow-Ups:** Regular follow-ups are essential for your overall dental health. Please schedule a check-up with our office every six months.
**Request for Mandatory Check-Up:** Kindly request a mandatory check-up within 72 hours of treatment completion
Contact Information
For any inquiries, please contact us at: +918050808811/+919019026096