After Completion of Endodontic Treatment

Endodontic treatment has now been completed. The root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface is sealed with a temporary restoration. A follow-up restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay. Please telephone your restorative dentist for an appointment. A complete report of treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. Included in your treatment is a follow-up examination to evaluate the progress of healing. This appointment will require only a few minutes and no additional fee will be charged for the first check-up visit. We will notify you by mail when you are due to return for this follow up appointment.

Your tooth is more prone to fracture immediately after endodontic treatment. You should chew on the other side until your restorative dentist has placed a core build-up and a protective restoration, usually a crown. If your tooth’s strength is seriously compromised, your endodontist or restorative dentist may place a post and core build-up inside the tooth. Your restorative dentist and endodontist will determine the appropriate restoration to best protect your tooth.

 You may experience discomfort for a few days. Cleansing the root canal system may cause inflammation of the tissue surrounding the tooth.  Sometimes it takes several days for symptoms to develop. The tooth may throb or be sensitive to bite or touch.

Over the counter analgesics like ibuprofen or acetaminophen usually alleviate the discomfort. If you are prescribed an antibiotic to help control infection, it should be started immediately and be taken until gone. An ice pack placed outside of the cheek will also alleviate symptoms.

Severe pain that keeps you awake at night or pain not alleviated by medication should be reported to our office. You should call us if you develop swelling or if prior swelling worsens. Sometimes your gum will be red or swollen  because of the clamp that was used around the tooth during the procedure. This is within normal limits of treatment. 

If you have any questions, please call our office 

Lyndhurst: Lyndhurst Office Phone Number 440.446.1300     Strongsville: Strongsville Office Phone Number 440.878.0455     Fairlawn: Fairlawn Office Phone Number 330.668.4044     Westlake: Westlake Office Phone Number 440.899.1188