After Root Canal Treatment

• Mild to moderate discomfort for 2-5 days is normal, especially when biting or chewing.
• Your tooth may feel slightly different from your other teeth for a while.
• A temporary filling or crown has been placed to protect the tooth until your permanent restoration is ready.
• Some patients experience no discomfort at all -- everyone heals differently.

• Take any prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• For mild pain, ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours) is usually effective. Acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours) is an alternative.
• A combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen (taken together or alternating) can be very effective for moderate pain. Consult your dentist for dosing guidance.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek if there is swelling -- 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is placed.
• Eat soft foods for the first few days.
• Avoid very hot or very cold foods if you are experiencing sensitivity.
• Stay hydrated and maintain your normal diet as much as comfort allows.

• Brush and floss your teeth normally, including the treated tooth.
• Be gentle around the treated area for the first few days.
• Warm salt water rinses can help with comfort and healing.

• The temporary may feel rough to your tongue -- this is normal.
• A small amount of the temporary material may wear away -- this is OK.
• Avoid sticky and very hard foods on the temporary side.
• If a large piece breaks off or the entire temporary comes out, call our office promptly.

Contact our office if you experience:

• Severe pain that does not respond to medication
• Visible swelling inside or outside your mouth
• An allergic reaction to medication (rash, hives, difficulty breathing)
• The temporary filling or crown completely falls out
• Fever over 101 degrees F (38.3 degrees C)
• Your bite feels significantly uneven
• The original symptoms return