Post Op Instructions

Numbness

Local anesthetic was used during treatment, and parts of your mouth may remain numb for several hours following your appointment. To avoid possible injury to lips, tongue, or cheek, avoid chewing and consuming hot foods or beverages until the numbness has entirely dissipated. 

 

Temporary Fillings

A temporary filling was placed to seal the opening made in your tooth. Your tooth is prone to fracture following endodontic treatment. To avoid fracture and protect the temporary filling, do not chew on the treated tooth until the placement of the permanent restoration. Please brush and floss normally unless instructed otherwise by the doctor.

It is normal for a thin layer of the temporary filling material to wear away. It is rare for the filling to come out entirely, but if that does occur, please contact our office as soon as possible. It is important that the filling remain intact until the placement of a permanent restoration by your general dentist. 

 

Discomfort/Inflammation

You may experience discomfort or soreness affecting the tooth, surrounding bone and tissues, and/or the injection site. This is normal and typically lasts only a few days; however, in some cases, the discomfort may last longer. An over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) is usually sufficient to maintain comfort and promote healing. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should avoid ibuprofen and use Tylenol instead. If you have discomfort or soreness that lasts longer than three weeks, please contact our office before returning to your general dentist for the final restoration. Continue taking any prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise by the doctor. 

 

Final Restoration

When your tooth feels normal and comfortable, you are ready for the final restoration. Please contact your general dentist for an appointment to permanently restore the tooth as soon as your general dental office can accommodate you.

 

Contact our office immediately if any of the following develop:

• • Severe pain not managed adequately by OTC medications. 
  • Swelling inside or outside of your mouth 
  • Loss of the temporary filling
  • Allergic reaction to any medication, including rash, itching, hives, or difficulty swallowing. Discontinue taking the medication if these occur.

• Nausea or other adverse reactions to prescribed medications