After Root Canal Treatment

• Though 50% of the root canals we perform are completed in one appointment, root canal therapy may take more than one appointment to complete. Since anesthetic has been used, your lips, tongue and the roof of your mouth may be numb for several hours after your appointment. Avoid chewing and hot beverages until the numbness has worn off.
• Between appointments until the tooth is fully restored, it is common (and not a problem) for a small portion of your temporary filling to wear away or break off. If the entire filling fall out or if a temporary crown comes off, call our office to arrange a time so it can be replaced.
• It is normal to experience some discomfort for several days after a root canal appointment. To control discomfort, take the pain medication prescribed by the doctor as recommended.
• If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them as directed, even if all signs and symptoms of infection are gone. To protect the tooth and keep the temporary in place, avoid eating hard and sticky foods (gum) and if possible, chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Continue to brush and floss normally.
• Usually, the last step in root canal treatment is the placement of a crown on the tooth. A crown will protect the tooth from breaking in the future. If your bite feels uneven, if you have any signs of swelling or increasing pain, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office.