Post-Operative Instructions

Post-Operative Instructions

Now that your root canal therapy is complete, it’s important to follow these instructions to support proper healing and long-term success. The temporary filling placed during your treatment is not a permanent solution and does not fully protect the tooth from fracture or reinfection. Please contact your general dentist promptly to schedule an appointment for a permanent restoration, such as a crown.

General Care Guidelines

  • Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it has been permanently restored.
  • Refrain from eating sticky, chewy, hard, or crunchy foods on the treated side.
  • You may notice a slight roughness or indentation in the temporary filling. This is normal.
  • If the temporary filling comes out, please contact our office or your general dentist to have it replaced to keep the area sealed.
  • Continue brushing and flossing your teeth as normal unless advised otherwise. 

Medications and Discomfort

  • If medications were prescribed, please begin taking them as instructed.
  • If your mouth is still numb, avoid eating until the numbness wears off to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
  • Some tenderness around the treated tooth or jaw is normal and can last several days, especially if you had discomfort before treatment. This should gradually improve.

When to Call Our Office

Please contact us if you experience any of the following:

  • Noticeable swelling inside or outside your mouth 
  • An allergic reaction to medication (e.g., rash, hives)
  • Severe or increasing pain lasting more than three days

Next Steps for Your Tooth

A root canal is only part of restoring your tooth’s function. A permanent restoration (typically a crown) is critical to prevent damage and reinfection. We recommend scheduling this with your general dentist as soon as possible. 

For continued care, we offer a follow-up visit 6 to 12 months after your treatment to evaluate the healing progress. Mark your calendar and call us when it’s time to schedule.

In rare cases, a previously treated tooth may develop issues months or even years later. Additional treatments may help preserve the tooth. 

Delta Root Canal is dedicated to providing comprehensive endodontic care focused on preserving natural teeth, relieving pain, and restoring oral health with advanced technology and compassionate treatment. Root canal therapy and related procedures are designed to address infection, inflammation, injury, and structural concerns within the tooth to prevent the need for extraction and support long term dental function. Every patient receives personalized evaluation using modern diagnostic tools, and treatment plans are tailored to individual needs to ensure comfort and successful outcomes. Our team emphasizes the importance of proper post treatment care, including appropriate follow up with restorations such as crowns when necessary, to enhance strength and protect the treated tooth.

We also provide educational resources and guidance on maintaining oral health to help patients prevent future issues and optimize overall dental wellness. Whether you are exploring your first visit, researching treatment options, or seeking information about insurance or financial arrangements, we strive to make every part of your experience clear and supportive. Our practice combines clinical expertise with attentive patient communication to help you feel confident and informed about your care.

 

  • What is endodontic treatment and when is it needed?

Endodontic treatment focuses on the inside of the tooth, including the pulp and root canals. It is commonly needed when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. Treating the tooth at this stage helps relieve discomfort and preserve the natural tooth structure.

  • Is a root canal painful?

Modern root canal treatment is designed to be comfortable and efficient. With current techniques and anesthesia, most patients report that the procedure feels similar to receiving a standard filling. The goal of treatment is to eliminate pain caused by infection, not to create it.

  • How long does a treated tooth last?

A tooth that has received proper endodontic treatment and is restored appropriately can last many years. Long term success depends on factors such as oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and completing any recommended restorative work after treatment.

  • Do I need a referral to see an endodontic specialist?

In many cases, patients are referred by their general dentist, but referrals are not always required. If you are experiencing tooth pain or have been advised that you may need specialized care, you can contact the practice directly to discuss your situation and next steps.

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