Congratulations!
By saving your tooth with root canal treatment, you’ve made a significant step toward better oral health. This guide answers common questions about the post-operative period and how to preserve your treated tooth.
Consume soft foods
Eat soft foods that require minimal chewing and nothing hot that might burn your mouth. Once the anesthetic wears off you may eat normally. Do not chew on the treated tooth until it has been restored by your dentist.
Medications before your appointment
- If you take any anticoagulant / blood thinners, please consult your physician at least 1 week prior to your dental appointment.
- Blood pressure medication, antibiotics, and pain medication should be taken as usual.
- If you take other medication and you are unsure if you should take it before your appointment, please call our office.
Soreness
Expect some soreness in your gums and jaw from the injections and from keeping your mouth open for an extended time.
Pain control
If Ibuprofen was recommended and you need a little more pain control, you may alternate it with Tylenol, for example:
- 12:00 PM — Ibuprofen 400 mg to 800 mg
- 3:00 PM — Tylenol 500 mg
- 6:00 PM — Ibuprofen 400 mg to 800 mg
- 9:00 PM — Tylenol 500 mg
If you need much more pain control, narcotic pain medication may be prescribed. If prescribed, take with food and avoid alcohol and operating heavy machinery. A hot/cold pack isn’t necessary, but there’s no harm in using one if it helps. If this doesn’t remedy the pain, please contact our office.
Oral hygiene
A tooth can still decay after root canal treatment, so maintain proper oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
Dental crown
If a crown is recommended, contact your general dentist within one to two weeks. Avoid sticky candy or hard chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed.