Aftercare Instructions: Root Canal Treatment

 

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canal treatment removes infected or damaged pulp (the nerve) from inside your tooth. The space is then carefully cleaned, shaped, and sealed to prevent future infection.

Treatment may be completed in one or more visits, depending on your specific case.

 

What to Expect After Treatment

It is normal to experience:

• Mild to moderate discomfort for a few days

• Sensitivity when biting or chewing

• Minor swelling in the area

To reduce swelling:

• Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face

• → 15 minutes on / 10 minutes off for 2–3 hours

• ⚠️ If swelling worsens or lasts more than a few days, please contact us.

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Please contact our office at 📞 201-433-8600 if you experience:

• Increasing swelling

• Severe or prolonged pain

• A lost temporary filling

• Bite feels uneven

• Pain lasts more than 3–4 days

• Any concerns or questions

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Pain Management

Over-the-counter medications are usually effective:

• Ibuprofen (Advil): 600 mg

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): 500 mg

• Take every 4–6 hours as needed (unless otherwise directed)

• If prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as instructed until finished.

 

Caring for Your Tooth

• A temporary filling may be placed between visits

• Avoid chewing or biting hard on the treated tooth

• If the temporary filling comes out, contact us

• Continue brushing and flossing gently as tolerated

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Important: Final Restoration (Crown)

• In most cases, a crown (cap) is required after a root canal to protect the tooth.

• Without a crown, the tooth can fracture

• Delay in treatment may lead to tooth loss

• Please schedule your crown as soon as recommended

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Additional Information

• Root canal treatment is highly successful, but in rare cases, retreatment may be necessary

• Even after treatment, the tooth is supported by surrounding tissues

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