Post-Op Instructions: Root Canal Therapy

First 24–48 Hours After Treatment

Discomfort:
Mild soreness, tenderness, or sensitivity (especially when biting) is normal for a few days following dental procedures. This is part of the normal healing process.

Medications:
Take prescribed or recommended pain relievers as directed. If antibiotics were prescribed, f it is important to complete the entire course to prevent infection and protect your oral health.

Temporary Filling or Crown:

If a temporary restoration was placed, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Temporary fillings and crowns are designed to protect the tooth until your permanent restoration is completed.

Eating & Drinking

    • Wait until numbness wears off before eating to prevent biting your cheek, lip, or tongue.
    • Choose soft foods during the first 24 hours, such as yogurt, pasta, eggs, mashed potatoes, or smoothies.
    • Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods on the treated tooth until your permanent crown or filling is placed.

Proper nutrition supports healing after dental procedures and helps prevent damage to temporary restorations.

Oral Hygiene After Dental Procedures

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential after any dentistry treatment.

    • Continue regular brushing and flossing, but do so gently around the treated tooth.
    • Keep the area clean to prevent irritation or infection.

Consistent oral care protects your investment in professional dentistry and promotes long-term oral health.

What to Expect During Healing

    • Mild swelling or tenderness when biting is normal for several days.
    • The treated tooth may feel slightly different or sensitive during the healing phase.
    • Discomfort should gradually improve each day.

Important Reminders

⚠️ The tooth is weaker until it has a permanent crown or filling. Be careful when chewing.
⚠️ A follow-up appointment is needed to restore the tooth permanently—do not skip this step, as it prevents future fracture or reinfection.

Contact the Lowcountry Family Dentistry Office If You Notice:

    • Severe pain that does not improve with medication
    • Visible swelling of the face or jaw
    • Fever or signs of infection
    • The temporary filling comes out or feels loose
    • Pain that worsens after several days instead of improving

Call Lowcountry Family Dentistry

If you have questions or concerns, please call our office at (843-651-6776). If it’s after hours and you experience an emergency, please go to the nearest urgent care or emergency room. We are here to ensure your comfort, healing, and long-term oral health.