After completion of your root canal therapy -

The infection that was present in your tooth has been eliminated. The canal or canals have been sealed to prevent re-infection. Nature must now have time to repair the damage that the original infection produced. The tooth may be tender for 72 hours. This is a result of your body’s defense mechanism trying to overcome the infection. You may take, Ibuprofen 200mg (non-Rx) - 3 tablets 4 times a day (with meals and at bedtime) or, Aleve - 2 tablets every 12 hours, as long as there are no contraindications. If your endodontist has prescribed other medications, please follow their instructions.

Although the root or roots are permanently sealed, the outer surface is only sealed with a temporary cement. You must see your regular dentist to restore the tooth. It is not wise to “wait and see”. Healing will almost always take place. A permanent restoration (filling, onlay or crown) will give the tooth more protection and help prevent fracture. Most teeth which have been treated with root canal therapy require this additional protection since they have been “patched” many times before or weakened by decay.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call the office.

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