POST-OPERATIVE GUIDANCE

It is normal to be sore 2-3 days following root canal therapy. However, it may take several weeks before the tenderness fully resolves. This is the normal healing process of the tooth and the surrounding gums. In the meantime, please avoid biting on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration has been placed. Follow the instructions below to mitigate discomfort after your endodontic care.

We recommend taking 600 mg of Ibuprofen (3 over-the-counter Advil®, Motrin®, or Aleve® tablets) every 6 hours for the first 2 days following treatment.

Precautions (Ibuprofen)

• Take after eating food
• Do not take more than 3200 mg Ibuprofen each day
• Do not take if you have any gastrointestinal (stomach) issues, are on blood thinners, are pregnant, or have been instructed by your primary care physician to avoid Ibuprofen

If pain persists or if you are unable to take Ibuprofen, we recommend taking 500 mg of Tylenol (1 Extra Strength Tylenol® caplet) every 6 hours for the first 2 days following treatment.

Precautions (Tylenol)

• Take after eating food
• Do not take more than 3000 mg Acetaminophen each day
• Do not take if you have any liver issues or have been instructed by your primary care physician to avoid Tylenol or Acetaminophen

*If you are unable to take Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, Aleve®) or Tylenol® for any medical reason, please let us know.

Once your root canal procedure has been successfully completed by Dr. Ma, please remember to return to your general dentist for the permanent restoration. This will protect the tooth from cracking or being reinfected.

If you have any questions or concerns, including follow-up advice, call us at (408) 659-2264