Home Care Instructions

Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. If your doctor has prescribed you an antibiotic, continue taking until done.

After root canal treatment or retreatment:

Do not chew food on the affected side until your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist (i.e. a crown). You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen unless otherwise instructed. Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed.

After root canal surgery (Apicoectomy):

Swelling: Swelling the next day is normal and usually will resolve in 3 to 5 days. In order to minimize swelling, place an ice pack over the surgical area for the rest of today until you go to bed.

Rinsing: Do not rinse the same day of surgery. Beginning the day after surgery you should rinse two to three times per day with a solution of half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water to keep the surgical area clean.

Brushing: Brush your teeth with a soft tooth brush avoiding the immediate surgical area.

Eating: A soft diet is recommended for the first three days after surgery.

If you experience severe pain or swelling after treatment, please contact the office. A doctor is on-call 24 hours a day. Please be sure to leave your full name and a phone number where we may reach you.

If you have any questions, please call our office at Dartmouth Office Phone Number (508) 999-7313 or Wareham Office Phone Number (508) 273-0110