Post-Treatment
Interappointment Instructions
Your treatment is not yet complete. It’s very important to return to our office for the remaining care. Please keep your scheduled appointment or reschedule if needed. Even if your initial discomfort improves, pain may return if the treatment isn’t fully finished here or with another provider.
Avoid eating anything chewy or drinking hot liquids for at least one hour after your procedure to prevent biting your cheek, tongue, or burning your mouth while numb. Once numbness fades, you may eat normally but try to chew on the opposite side until treatment is complete. Some mild discomfort or sensitivity to biting pressure for 2–4 weeks is normal and should gradually improve.
To relieve discomfort, take 600-800 mg of ibuprofen (Advil) every 6 hours with food. Aleve or Tylenol can be used as alternatives, following package directions. Warm saltwater rinses (½ teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) may also help. If pain worsens or swelling develops, please contact our office immediately. For after-hours emergencies, call (650) 328-3636, where the doctor’s emergency number is provided on the answering machine.
Continue brushing and flossing as usual. If your temporary filling comes out, contact our office or your general dentist promptly for replacement.
Post-Treatment Instructions
Your root canal treatment is now complete. The canals have been sealed, and it will take time for your body to heal.
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until all tenderness has resolved. We have placed a permanent filling to protect the root canal, but you still need to visit your general dentist for a crown or any further restoration. A crown is essential for all back teeth (any tooth behind the canine) to prevent fracture and preserve the tooth. While the root canal removes the nerve inside the tooth, proper brushing and flossing are necessary to prevent decay around the crown and protect your investment. A summary of your treatment and final x-rays will be sent to your dentist, so please schedule your permanent restoration promptly.
Avoid eating anything chewy or hot for the first hour after your procedure to prevent biting your cheek or tongue while numb. Once numbness fades, you may eat normally but try to chew on the opposite side until fully healed. Some sensitivity to biting pressure lasting 2-4 weeks is normal and should improve over time.
Pain can usually be managed with ibuprofen (600-800 mg every 6 hours with food), Aleve, or aspirin. If prescribed stronger pain medication, take ibuprofen first and use the prescription as needed. Do not stop ibuprofen in favor of other meds, as this will reduce pain control. Warm saltwater rinses (½ teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) may also help. Contact us if pain or swelling worsens.
If you were prescribed antibiotics, please complete the entire course.
We have scheduled a follow-up appointment in 6 months at no charge to check your healing. You will receive a reminder call before this visit. If you need to reschedule, please contact us.
If you have any questions or concerns, call or email our office. For after-hours emergencies, call (650) 328-3636, where the doctor’s emergency number is provided on the answering machine.