Post-Op Information
Endodontic Post-Operative Information For Patients:
Thank you for choosing Harkrider Endodontics for your endodontic procedure. Dr. Adam K. Harkrider has years of experience in the field of endodontics and ensures that every procedure is handled with professionalism and care. Once you’re out of the chair following your procedure, it’s important that you continue that care with the following list of guidelines, ensuring a successful recovery from your root canal and continuing good dental health.
Pain Management
Upon completion of your endodontic procedure with Harkrider Endodontics, you will be advised to take pain medication prior to the numbness wearing off to aid in maintaining a reasonable level of comfort. It is advisable to avoid eating or drinking on the affected side until the numbing agent has worn off. Taking 600mg of an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) such as Ibuprofen, Advil, or Motrin every 6 hours will help to control the post-operative swelling. 1000Mg of Extra Strength Tylenol (Acetaminophen) may be added if additional control of your discomfort is needed. Do NOT take Vicodin or another Acetaminophen-containing medication in the same dose as Tylenol.
How Long Will I Experience Discomfort?
The amount and duration of discomfort patients experience can vary from case to case; however, it is not uncommon to have some discomfort following the procedure even when none existed prior to treatment. In the event that your discomfort isn’t sufficiently controlled by the medications listed above, or if excessive swelling develops, contact our office immediately.
Are There Any Special Dietary Guidelines That I Need to Follow?
You will want to avoid eating or drinking anything on the affected side of your mouth until the numbness wears off. Following that, avoidance of chewing on the treated tooth until placement of the final, permanent restoration will decrease the chance of the tooth fracturing in the interim period.
Is It Safe For Me To Drink Through A Straw?
The sucking action involved with the use of a straw could disturb the filling material in the tooth that had the root canal, or the blood clot if a surgical procedure was performed. Therefore, you should avoid using a straw for 3-4 days following the procedure.
Can I Drive Myself Home After My Procedure?
Since your procedure will be performed with a local anesthesia, one isolated to the procedure site, you will be able to return to your normal activities not long after your treatment. You should be able to drive yourself home with no difficulty.
Will I Need To Take An Antibiotic?
Antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases. If you are prescribed antibiotics it is important that you take the full course on the schedule recommended by Dr. Harkrider to avoid reinfection.
Will I Need To Return To Harkrider Endodontics For A Follow-Up Appointment?
Follow-up appointments will be necessary for the placement of your permanent restoration, as well as to observe the healing process and ensure that good progress is being made. Be sure to keep these appointments as they are important to your dental health and the success of your procedure.
When Will My Permanent Restorations Be Ready?
Teeth treated with an endodontic procedure have been structurally compromised by existing decay and fillings, you will need to have a permanent filling or crown placed in the tooth within a month of your root canal (if not sooner). These restorations aid in preventing future fracture and decay, and keeps foreign bodies such as food out of your canal, preventing contamination. Without a timely restoration you may experience further damage, including fracturing or loss of the remaining tooth, or the need for another root canal.