When endodontic treatment is complete, we will schedule you for a follow up appointment, usually six months after completing your root canal. At this appointment, we will make sure everything is secure and healing is progressing well. If there are adjustments that need to be made, they will be made at this time. When a crown is needed, please contact your general dentist to complete the restoration of your tooth as soon as possible. 

Root canal treatment is generally performed under local anesthesia, numbing only the treatment area. This means that there are usually no restrictions after the procedure. You will be able to drive and return to work like normal. Be careful when chewing until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek. Tenderness of the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue is normal as your body undergoes the natural healing process. This discomfort is temporary and may be controlled with ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed. Please Note: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, or should swelling develop, please contact our office immediately. When you call, please have your pharmacy information available.

After any treatment, be tender when chewing on the tooth for a while and if you are between treatments, try to avoid sticky foods in order to maintain the life of the temporary filling in your tooth. You may return to eating like normal when restoration of your tooth is complete. 

In cases where sedation is requested and necessary, you will need a ride home from your treatment appointment and after the sedation wears off, you may experience minor amnesia regarding your treatment. 

Every case is slightly different, so if there is a problem after treatment or you have any questions, please give us a call. The office phone will ring over to the doctor's mobile phone after normal hours for any immediate assistance.

After medication change appointments, it is normal to experience some discomfort as your body begins to heal. If you experience prolonged discomfort or increasing pain, contact us to diagnose what the causes could be and to continue treatment. 

Please continue all medications for Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Thyroid problems, and any other conditions as recommended by your physician.