Root Canal Post-Operative Care Instructions in Washington, DC & Woodbridge, VA

It is important to adhere to the general recommendations after root canal treatment. Please read below for a speedy recovery. Contact us for more information.

• After treatment is completed, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth. It is common (and not a problem) for a small portion of your temporary filling to wear away or break off.  If the entire filling falls out, please call our office and set up a time to come in and have it replaced.
• To prevent fracture and microbial contamination into the root canal, the placement of a crown or permanent filling in the tooth is necessary after root canal treatment.  A crown will protect the tooth from breaking in the future. Please see your dentist within two weeks for permanent restorations.
• Though some of the root canal procedures we perform are completed in 1 appointment, root canal therapy may take more than 1 appointment to complete.
• Since an anesthetic has been used, parts of your mouth may be numb for several hours after the appointment.  Avoid chewing and drinking hot beverages until the numbness has worn off.
• It is normal to experience some discomfort for several days after a root canal procedure.  To control discomfort, take any pain medication prescribed by the dentist as recommended.  If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them as directed, even if all signs and symptoms of infection are gone.  Taking ibuprofen before the numbness wears off can greatly reduce post-operative pain.

• To protect the tooth and keep the temporary filling in place, avoid eating hard or sticky food (such as chewing gum), and try to chew on the other side of your mouth.  Continue to brush and floss normally.
• If you have signs of swelling or increasing pain, or if you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our office or the Doctors through their direct phone lines.

For Moderate to Severe Pain 600mg Advil + 500mg Tylenol every 6hrs for pain.
For Mild to Moderate Pain 600mg Advil every 6hrs for pain.