Post Treatment Care, Comfort, and Questions
It is not uncommon for patients who receive endodontic (root canal) therapy to experience some after-treatment discomfort or soreness. This is usually caused by simple inflammation subsequent to treatment. Control of these symptoms is usually handled quite easily:
- First do not function (chew) in the area of treatment - this function creates pressure on the already inflamed socket area of the tooth - chewing in the area could disturb or cause loss of the temporary filling resulting in an infection. Chewing on the unprotected tooth could also cause fracture of the tooth itself resulting in loss of the tooth.
- If the tooth becomes sore, follow the instructions of your doctor and take the medications as recommended by him, if necessary. Anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is often recommended, but not all patients can take these over-the-counter medications due to medical conditions or because there may be unacceptable interactions with other medications being taken. All patients may do warm soaks in the area of the affected tooth. These soaks increase blood flow and accelerate and enhance healing by appropriate. Do not apply ice or heat to the outside of the face.
- Even though some discomfort is expected, severe pain and/or facial swelling is not normal, and the office should be contacted so that we can better control your condition. A 24 hour voice mail system is in place. One of the doctors is always on call to address your concerns.
- If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our aim is to make your endodontic experience as efficient and comfortable as possible.