Home Care Instructions

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. 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) or prescribed pain medication 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 us immediately. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.

Home care instructions:

1. Avoid chewing on the tooth until it is restored by your general dentist.
   
2. Some soreness may be present in the treated area for several days.
   
3. Brush and floss the area carefully.
   
4. If antibiotics are prescribed, take as directed.
   Women: if you are taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills), please use barrier contraception while taking this antibiotic.
   
5. Take 600-800 mg of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or 1000 mg of Acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 6 hours
   for the first 2-3 days after appointment until soreness subsides.
6. The narcotic prescription (codeine or other) is to be taken only if the above “over the counter” medications are not effective.
   Do not drive or operate machinery while under the influence of prescription pain medication.
7. Please return to our office for any necessary completion, check, or recall appointments.
   
8. Please notify our office if you have any questions or problems.
   
9. Make sure you follow-up with your general dentist for the permanent restoration of the tooth we treated — otherwise you risk root canal failure or tooth loss.