Post-Op Instructions

ENDODONTIC TREATMENT (Root Canal)

Endodontic treatment can take 1, 2 or 3 appointments to complete, depending on each case.  It is possible to experience any of the following symptoms after any one of these appointments.

    *Sensitivity to hot and/or cold temperatures

 *Sensitivity to pressure                             

 *Possible swelling                                    

It is difficult to predict which symptoms, if any, you may experience and to what extent.  In complicated cases, pain medicine may be necessary.

If you experience swelling, call our office at 413-584-6275.  It may be necessary to prescribe an antibiotic for you.

A temporary filliing may be used to seal the tooth between visits.  This type of filling is used to seal the root canal area until the final restoration--usual a post & core and crown.  The temporary filling is soft and may become easily chipped.  If you believe the filling has been severely broken or lost, please call the office.

Be extremely gentle on the tooth while eating until the final restoration is placed.

During endodontic treatment the nerve, blood and nutrient supply is removed.  This will cause the tooth to become very brittle and prone to fracturing which can result in the need to extract the tooth.  In many cases, a full crown restoration may be needed to prevent this from happening.

If Dr. Bawa or Dr. Saxena has recommended that a post & core and crown be done on a tooth that you have had endontically treated, it is necessary to have this procedure done very soon after your root canal has been completed.  Until the crown can be done, be very careful with the tooth.

DRY SOCKET

Self-Care

Content provided by MayoClinic.com

Dry socket rarely results in infection or serious complications.  But getting the pain under control is a top priority.  You can help promote healing and reduce symptoms during treatment of dry socket by:

Holding cold packs to the outside of your face to help decrease pain and

swelling

Not smoking or using tobacco products

Drinking plenty of clear liquids to remain hydrated and to prevent nausea that may be associated with some pain medications

Rinsing your mouth gently with warm salt water several times a day

Brushing your teeth gently around the dry socket area

Keeping scheduled appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon for dressing changes and other care

Calling for a sooner appointment if your pain returns or worsens before your next scheduled appointment