Follow these instructions after root canal therapy at Highland Park Endodontic IL.  Highland Park Endodontics cares about your comfort and well-being after your root canal therapy. Often there is minimal discomfort after endodontic treatment. However, it is possible that for the first few days following your treatment, your tooth may feel tender, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medication.Please understand that your tooth may continue to feel different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. Regardless, if you have severe pain, pressure or swelling, or pain that lasts for more than a few days, call our office.

General Instructions After Root Canal Therapy

• Avoid eating, biting or chewing anything immediately after treatment. Anesthesia can last up to two to six hours after treatment so do not to eat until after the numbness wears off.

• Fluids will not bother the tooth, therefore drinking fluids is allowed at any time after treatment.

• Once the anesthesia wears off, you may eat (chew) on the side opposite of treatment. Inadvertent chewing on the treated tooth will cause prolonged pain and possible fracture of the tooth.

• If discomfort is present, an over-the-counter medication, such as Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Acetaminophen (Tylenol), or Naproxen Sodium (Aleve) can be taken unless you have personal medical restrictions against the use of such medications. Follow the directions on the bottle of the medication to be taken unless alterations are made by your treating doctor.

• If over-the-counter medications do not improve the symptoms then call our office for further instructions or for a prescription for a stronger pain medication.

• If antibiotics are prescribed, take them as directed by your treating doctor.

• Continue your normal home care regimen of brushing and flossing. If a temporary crown is present, then caution is advised when flossing due to the fact that the temporary crown can become dislodged.

• Return to your dentist within four weeks from the completion of treatment for placement of a permanent restoration. A permanent restoration must be placed to protect the tooth from contamination, fracture or decay.

• At any time, if pain is increasing or if you develop any swelling, do not hesitate to contact our office at 847-433-5155 for further instructions.