Home Care Instructions

After Completion of Endodontic Treatment

Your endodontic treatment is now complete. The root canals have been permanently sealed. PLEASE phone your DENTIST for an appointment to COMPLETE THE FINAL RESTORATION. This will protect the tooth against fracture and decay. Most teeth will require a crown to protect against fracture. Delay in obtaining a final restoration may result in tooth fracture and possible loss of the tooth.

You may eat and drink as soon as the anesthetic wears off. The tooth may be tender for several days up to a few weeks as a result of the manipulation during treatment. Give the area some time to heal. We recommend taking 600 mg of ibuprofen every 6 hours for the first 2 days following treatment. If you are allergic to ibuprofen, take 2 Tylenol extra strength tablets, up to 4 times a day.  Avoid chewing on the treatment side of your mouth until the tenderness is gone.

Your dentist will be informed that your endodontic treatment is complete and a progress report will be sent along with the final radiograph.

*In the unlikely event that pain should become severe or swelling develops, (or if you just need reassurance), please call us immediately.

After Completion of Apicoectomy Surgery

Rest as much as possible the day of your surgery. This will allow the blood clot to form and the area to heal most rapidly. Avoid strenuous activities and do not smoke.

To Minimize swelling and discomfort, apply an ice bag or cold compress to the outside of your face over the surgical area. Apply the cold for 15 minutes, then take off for 5 minutes. Maintain light pressure on the area while holding the ice bag in place. Continue this as much as possible over the next 3 days.

There will be some swelling and facial discoloration present for up to 2 weeks after the surgery. This is a normal part of the healing process. Slight bleeding for the first 24 hours is normal. If needed, minimize the bleeding by holding gauze or a tea bag on the surgical site with gentle pressure. Use a pillow to elevate your head while sleeping the first few nights.

Drink plenty of fluids. Cold fluids are best (ice tea). Do not skip any meals. Eat soft, bland foods the first few days. Avoid chewing on the operated area until the sutures are removed.

Take your prescribed medications exactly as directed.

Ibuprofen 600 mg, Take one tablet every 6 hours until gone.

Tylenol extra strength, Take two tablets every 6 hours for 2 days.

Vicodin, 1 or 2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.

Penicillin Amoxicillin Cleocin One tablet every 6 hours until gone.

Other

Brush your teeth carefully after each meal, but avoid the surgical site. You may rinse with warm salt water several times a day to help keep the site clean. Starting the day after the surgery, soften your toothbrush under hot water and then gently clean the surgical site. Avoid alcohol or mouthwashes the next 2 days.

Some of the sutures may begin to come out within 2 to 3 days. This is normal unless you notice the surgical area is open and not healing shut. Please call our office if this occurs.

Please call if you have any questions.