It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area for 2-3 days after your root canal treatment as your body undergoes the natural healing process. Depending on the circumstances, the tooth and surrounding tissues may remain sore for a few weeks due to:
• Sore jaw joint from having your mouth open for a prolonged time.
• Sore muscle from the injection site.
These symptoms are temporary and usually respond very well to over-the-counter pain medications or your doctor may prescribe some medication and it very important that you following the instructions as given.
Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your root canal treatment has been completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, please call the office.
Guidelines for Post-Treatment Care
• Do not eat anything until the numbness in your mouth wears off because it may result in you biting your cheek or tongue.
• Do not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist, because the tooth is prone to fracture when biting on anything hard.
• Be sure to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would.
• If the opening in your tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual for a thin layer to wear off in-between appointments. However, if you think the entire filling has come out, contact the office.
Please call the office if you develop any of the following:
• a visible swelling inside or outside of your mouth;
• an allergic reaction to medication, including rash, hives or itching (nausea is not an allergic reaction)
Taking Care of Your Tooth
Root canal treatment is only one step in returning your tooth to full function. A proper final restoration of the tooth is extremely important in ensuring long-term success within 1 month of treatment.
Items to Avoid:
• Peanuts, Almonds, Cashews
• Ice
• Pretzels
• Crunchy Hard Things etc.
