After Treatment Instructions

AFTER COMPLETION OF ENDODONTIC TREATMENT

Endodontic treatment has now been completed. The root canal system has been sealed. However, the outer surface may be sealed with a temporary restoration. If so, a permanent restoration must be placed to seal the tooth from bacterial leakage which will cause the root canal treatment to fail. This should be done within 3-4 weeks of completion.

Additionally, your restorative dentist may elect to place a separate restoration protect your tooth against fracture and decay.

Please telephone your restorative dentist for an appointment. A complete report of treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist.

Your tooth is more prone to fracture immediately after endodontic treatment. You should chew on the other side until your restorative dentist has placed a core build-up and a protective restoration, usually a crown. 

ARE THERE ANY POTENTIAL PROBLEMS AFTER TREATMENT?

  • Lower teeth and nerve injury. There is a slight possibility that nerve injury can occur during endodontic surgery to the lower posterior teeth.  For lower posterior teeth, the root tips may be near a nerve that supplies feeling to the lip, chin and gums.  The nerve can become irritated during the process of surgery. In these cases, when the local anesthesia wears off, you may experience tingling, altered sensation or, in rare cases a complete lack of feeling in the affected tissues. Should this occur, it is usually temporary and will resolve over a period of days, weeks or months. In rare cases, these changes can be permanent and/or painful.
  • Upper teeth and sinus communication. The upper teeth are situated near your sinuses, and endodontic surgery can result in a communication between your mouth and the adjacent sinus. Should this complication occur, it will usually heal spontaneously. We will give you special instructions if this is apparent at the time of surgery. We prefer that you don’t blow your nose for two to three days after surgery. If you have to sneeze, you should sneeze with an open mouth into a tissue. You should not create any pressure in the sinus area. If you sense a complication after surgery, please contact us.
  • Post-operative infections. Post-operative infections occasionally occur. Many times placing you on an antibiotic for one week will take care of the infection.  Occasionally, other follow-up procedures will be needed.
  • If you have any questions, please call our office at Sunset District Office Phone Number415-566-6900 or Pacific Heights Office Phone Number415-528-7590.