When Root Canal Therapy is performed on a tooth, the nerve,
blood supply, and nutrient supply to the tooth, as well as some hard tissue,
are removed. This causes the tooth to become brittle and prone to fracture.
Today, the doctor has exposed the pulp chamber which contains the nerve and
blood vessels and has begun the root canal treatment. A cotton pellet
containing medication has been placed in the cavity, and filled with a porous
temporary filling material. The root canal process will be continued and
finished at a later time.
This temporary filling has been placed over the access of
the root canal to aid in prevention of fracture and decay. This material may
chip or wear away, which is normal. It is only a problem if it becomes
uncomfortable for you or if it falls out completely. If this happens, we can
adjust this for you or replace the filling until your next appointment.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Following root canal therapy, expect
the treated area to be sore and tender to touch for 4-7 days. Swelling is rare,
but may occur depending on the extent of the treatment and location in the
mouth.
PAIN: It is normal for your tooth to be sore and
tender after treatment, and will most likely be increasingly sore on the second
day. Tenderness to biting may persist up to a month after treatment, but should
gradually get better over time. This is a normal process that the body goes
through in order to heal properly. If you feel that the pain and soreness
is uncomfortable, you can take analgesics such as Advil (ibuprofen) or aspirin
tablets, or other pain medication with which you are familiar. If you develop a
rash or if you become nauseated, discontinue medication and contact our office.
RECOMMENDED HOME CARE: Rinse with
warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt to 8 oz. lukewarm water) 4-6 times daily and chew
on the other side. Brush and floss normally, but we recommend not flossing
around the temporary filling if it extends to the edge of the tooth.
DIET: While waiting for your permanent restoration
appointment, it is important that you avoid chewing on the
side treated with the root canal. Foods to avoid include nuts, pop corn, and
other hard, crunchy, or chewy foods like steak and gum, that could possibly
break the remaining tooth structure or pull out the temporary filling. Stick to
eating a softer diet such as mashed potatoes and soup if necessary.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office, we will be glad to assist you.