Home Care Instructions

After Endodontic Treatment

• Refrain from eating until the anesthesia has worn off to prevent possible injury to your lips, tongue and cheeks. This time interval will also allow the temporary filling to set to a reasonable hardness.
• Any infection or inflammation that was present in your tooth has been eliminated. The root canal space has been sealed. Nature must now have time to heal any damage that may have occurred from the infection.
• The tooth may be tender for some time. Be sure to take any antibiotic medication prescribed for you as it will help the area to heal. An analgesic may also be recommended for your comfort and can be taken as directed.
• DO NOT CHEW ON THE TOOTH UNTIL ALL OF THE TENDERNESS IS GONE. The tooth will be sore to chewing and bite pressure so you should avoid hard or chewy foods. This should gradually decrease within 7-10 days after treatment.
• Although the root(s) are permanently sealed, the outer surface is only sealed with a “temporary” filling. It may last for many weeks, but it is advisable to see your regular dentist within two to four weeks to restore the tooth. All chewing teeth that receive root canals will need to be restored with a crown unless they have a crown already. Otherwise, a filling will be needed to seal the crown.

If you have any questions, please call our office at Duluth Office Phone Number (770) 545-8667