Home Care Instructions

After Endodontic Treatment

Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm.

  • Discomfort is to be expected 5-7 days after your treatment.
  • Do not chew on the treated tooth for at least 4 days.  Try chewing on the other side of your mouth. Please let the tooth rest. Gradually begin chewing on the tooth after final restoration has been placed.
  • If you have had a temporary filling placed, this filling will take 1 hour to set.  The temporary filling may “sink in” slightly, this is normal. 
  • While you are numb, be careful that you do not bite or burn yourself.  When you are no longer numb, if the tooth (filling) feels high, contact our office during normal business hours so we can adjust the bite.
  • Many teeth treated with a root canal will require a crown.  The crown should be started within 30 days of completion of your endodontic treatment. Ask your dentist what is best for you.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (Advil, Nuprin, and Ibuprophen) usually work better than non-inflammatory medications (Tylenol, Acetaminophen). 

    CHOOSE ONE of the following medications that you know to be safe for you.  These recommended doses are appropriate for most people, if you are in poor health, elderly, or less than 16 years of age consult your physician.

    Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Ibuprophen, 600-800mg every 6 hours OR,

    Aspirin 650-1000mg every 4 to 6 hours OR,

    Aleve (naproxen sodium) 440mg every 8 – 12 hours OR,

    Tylenol (acetaminophen) 1000mg every 6 hours.

Take the first dose before the numbness wears off.  These doses are appropriate for the first 24 – 72 hours; do not exceed these doses without consulting your physician first .

NOTE: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, please contact our office.

The office telephone is answered day and night. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.

We hope we made your experience as pleasant as possible.  Please contact us if you have any questions or issues with your tooth at Dallas Office Phone Number 214-691-5223.