Post-operative advice for non-surgical endodontic treatment, including endodontic retreatment

In the days following the procedure, it is normal for the tooth to remain sensitive to contact and chewing. Discomfort around the treated area is usually present for a few days after the procedure, and may remain for up to 7-10 days in some cases. It should be noted that a tooth that was painful before endodontic treatment is likely to take longer to recover than a tooth that was not painful to begin with.

Since most post-operative pain is inflammatory in origin, it is advisable to take an anti-inflammatory drug, such as Ibuprophen, to control the pain until it subsides significantly.

• Do not eat on the side of the treated tooth.
• For the first 24 hours following treatment, and if your medical condition allows, for mild to moderate pain, we recommend taking: 400mg Ibuprophen (Advil, Motrin) and 500mg Acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4 to 6 hours, in combination.
• In case of severe pain, and if your medical condition permits, we recommend taking: 600mg Ibuprophen (Advil, Motrin) and 1000mg Acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4 to 6 hours, in combination.
• If pain increases despite medication after 24-48 hours, or if swelling is observed, antibiotics may be required. If you haven’t received a prescription for antibiotics, please contact our clinic to let us know, and we’ll take care of the situation. Antibiotics should help improve your condition within 72 hours of the first dose. If no relief is observed after this time, the prescribed antibiotic may need to be substituted. Please contact us for further information.
• The restoration protecting your root canal is temporary. A treatment report will be promptly sent to your dentist, who will contact you to schedule the replacement of the temporary with a permanent restoration as soon as possible. If you haven’t heard from your dentist within 3 weeks of completing your root canal, call your dentist’s office to find out what’s holding up this important step in keeping your tooth healthy.

It is your responsibility that the temporary restoration is replaced within 3 months.