Post-Op Instructions: Root Canal Therapy

First 24–48 Hours

✅ Discomfort: Mild soreness, tenderness, or sensitivity (especially when biting) is normal for a few days.
✅ Medications: Take prescribed or recommended pain relievers as directed. If antibiotics were prescribed, finish the full course.
✅ Temporary filling/crown: You may have a temporary restoration. Avoid chewing on this side until your permanent crown or filling is placed.

Eating & Drinking

• • Wait until numbness wears off before eating to prevent biting your cheek, lip, or tongue.
  • Stick to soft foods for the first day (yogurt, pasta, eggs, smoothies).
  • Avoid chewing hard, sticky, or crunchy foods on the treated tooth until it has been permanently restored.

Oral Hygiene

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

Healing Expectations

• • Tenderness when biting or mild swelling is normal for several days.
  • The tooth may feel “different” or slightly 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.

Call Us 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.