Instructions: Pre and Post-Operative

• This procedure will be performed using local anesthesia. There are usually no restrictions after the procedure concerning driving or returning to work or school after root canal treatment.   Today, getting root canal treatment is very similar to having a filling done.

• Please refrain from taking any pain relieving medication, i.e. ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), prescribed pain medication, etc. if we have not yet evaluated your tooth to determine if you are in need of endodontic treatment.  This will help us test and diagnose accurately. Continue all other medications as previously prescribed by your primary care doctor and/or specialist. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.

• Eat breakfast or lunch if you normally do.  We mainly request you eat breakfast or lunch because you will be quite numb after your procedure as it proves difficult to eat while you’re numb.  

Pre-Medication Patients: If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic pre-medication because of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), heart murmur, hip, knee, cardiac or other prosthesis, or if you have rheumatic heart disease, please make sure you take the appropriate antibiotic one hour before your appointment, regardless if your dentist has prescribed you a round of antibiotics related to possible infection or abscess of your tooth.  If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.

Home care/post-operative instructions: Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of your treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for worry. Do not chew food on the affected side until your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative/general dentist. You may continue brushing your teeth as normal.

Discomfort may be alleviated by taking OTC ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed.

Contact our office right away and have your pharmacy information ready if you develop any of the following:

• Swelling of the face/gum tissues near the tooth
• Allergic reactions such as hives, a rash, or sudden, severe swelling
• A return of original symptoms
• Uneven bite

It is normal for the temporary filling that was placed to wear down over time. It is important to follow-up with your general dentist for the final restoration.