Will the treatment be painful?
This procedure will be performed using local anesthesia, much like having a cavity removed and a filling placed, which will make the procedures essentially painless and very comfortable. Generally, the area surrounding the root canal site will remain numb for 4 to 6 hours. Most discomfort following any procedure goes away after 24 hours. Standard precautions should be taken for the quickest recovery. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available per request. Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems and any other conditions as recommended by your physician. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic pre-medication because of mitral valve prolape (MVP), heart murmur, hip, knee, cardiac or other prosthesis, or if you have rheumatic heart disease, please make sure you are on the appropriate antibiotic on the day of your appointment. Please inform our staff of any existing medical conditions prior to the beginning of any procedure. If you have any question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
Will I be able to drive after my appointment?
YES. Most patients return to work or other routine activities following treatment in our office. You may wish to have an escort accompany you to your appointment, though an escort is not routinely required. Our staff will be happy to discuss your expected recovery time with you before and after the procedure.
What should I expect after endodontic therapy?
Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and the previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. Do not chew food on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist. You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen. Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed.
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, or should swelling develop, please contact our office immediately. The office telephone is answered day and night. When calling please have your pharmacy number available.
Will I need to return to your office for follow-ups after the procedure is finished?
Yes, for most root canal treatments, we recommend that patients return to the office one year after the procedure was finished. Our office will send a reminder notice to you when you are due for a follow up appointment.