Root Canal Pre & Post Care Instructions

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Instructions

PRECISION WAY

WHERE PRECISION MEETS COMFORT
JUST FOR YOU

We’ve outlined these simple steps to help you prepare, heal,
and maintain a comfortable endodontic experience—from start to finish.

Before Endodontic Treatment

• Local Anesthesia & Medications

• This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Many patients are able to drive and return to work after the procedure, but this may vary depending on individual response to anesthesia.

• Continue taking your usual medications (e.g., for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid issues) unless instructed otherwise by your physician.

• If you have any questions regarding medications, please call our office before your appointment.

• Please eat a full breakfast or lunch as applicable.

• Pain Relief

• If you can take ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), If approved by your physician, taking 2 tablets of ibuprofen or naproxen sodium 2–4 hours before the procedure may help reduce inflammation.

• Questions?

• If you have any concerns, please call our office at 703-570-7870. A doctor is available for consultation if any issues arise after your treatment.

Home Care Instructions
(Between Visits)

• Tenderness & Chewing

• Your tooth and gums may feel slightly tender for a few days due to the procedure and pre-existing conditions. This is common, but please contact us if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few days.

• Avoid chewing on the treated side until the tooth is permanently restored (crown or filling from your general dentist).

• Pain Management

• Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate discomfort.

• Avoid alcohol while taking these medications.

• If swelling develops or pain becomes unmanageable with over-the-counter remedies, contact us immediately.

• Dental Hygiene

• Continue your regular brushing and brushing routine, but being gentle around the treated area.

After Completion of Endodontic Treatment

• Temporary Restoration

• The root canal system has been permanently sealed, but the outer surface may have a temporary filling. A follow-up restoration (e.g., crown) is typically recommended by your restorative dentist to protect the tooth.

• Please make an appointment with your restorative dentist as soon as possible.

• Follow-Up Exam

• We include a follow-up check to evaluate healing. This brief appointment may occur a few weeks or months after treatment; there’s usually no additional fee for the first follow-up.

• Fragile Tooth

• Your tooth can be more prone to fracture immediately after endodontic treatment. Avoid chewing on that side until a permanent restoration (crown or strong filling) is placed.

• If the tooth is severely weakened, a post and core build-up may be required. Your endodontist or restorative dentist will determine the best restoration.

Potential Problems
& Complications

• Nerve Injury (Lower Teeth)

• For lower back teeth, root tips may be near the nerve that supplies sensation to the lip, chin, and gums.

• Rarely, this nerve becomes irritated, causing tingling or numbness. These symptoms are usually temporary, but in rare cases, they may persist. If you experience numbness or discomfort, please notify us immediately.

• Sinus Communication (Upper Teeth)

• Upper teeth are close to the sinuses, so in some cases, a communication between the mouth and sinus can occur.

• This is often self-healing, but we’ll provide special instructions if it happens.

• Avoid blowing your nose for a few days after surgery. If you need to sneeze, keep your mouth open to prevent sinus pressure.

• Post-Operative Infections

• In rare instances, you might develop an infection after treatment.

• We may prescribe an antibiotic, and additional follow-up procedures could be required.

If you notice any of these issues or have concerns, Please call or text us at 703-570-7870 right away. Our office phone is answered day and night; after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.