HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Non-Surgical Instructions

Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. Do not chew anything hard on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a permanent protective restoration by your restorative dentist. You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen. Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) as directed. If you are unable to take these anti-inflammatory medications, you may try taking acetaminophen (Tylenol). 

NOTE: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, or should swelling develop, please contact our office immediately. The office telephone is answered day and night. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.

Surgical Instructions

Please continue all medications unless advised otherwise.

Endodontic surgical procedures in our office are performed using local anesthesia. In most cases, it is recommended that you go home after your surgery, in order to enhance compliance with your post-operative instructions. We are available for consultation at all time should you have a question after treatment. There are usually no driving restrictions after the procedure.

NOTE: If you take a sedative prior to your surgical procedure, you will require a driver.

Post-Operative Instructions for Endodontic Surgery

  • Maintain gentle pressure for at least 10 minutes on the gauze sponge that has been placed over the surgical site. Leave gauze in place for 1 hour. A light oozing of blood from the area is normal for a few hours. If unusual bleeding occurs or a jelly-like clot form, gently wipe the area with a damp gauze sponge, replace with another sponge, and hold under firm pressure until bleeding stops. A slightly dampened tea bag is very effective in controlling more profuse bleeding. If bleeding is not controlled, call our office.

  • Swelling and discoloration are normal for 5 to 6 days following any surgical procedure. These problems can be minimized by the use of an ice pack, rest, and the avoidance of strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Routine, non-strenuous activity is not harmful, unless otherwise directed. Smoking and alcohol consumption delay the would healing process and should be avoided for 24 hours following surgery. Place the ice pack on your face, over the surgical are, for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. Alternate these intervals for 5 to 6 hours. After 8 hours, the ice pack should not be applied. It is advisable to elevate your head with pillows while sleeping to reduce swelling and potential bleeding.

  • It is essential that you maintain an adequate diet with proper solid and fluid intake during the first 3 days following surgery. In addition to fruit juices, soups, and other soft foods, liquid food supplements are recommended. (Liquid food supplements are readily available and include such products as Sego, Slender, Meritene, Ensure, etc.)

  • Avoid manipulation of the facial tissues as much as possible. Do not raise lip or retract the cheeks to inspect the surgical site, as you may dislodge the sutures (stitches).

  • Post-surgical discomfort should be minimal, but the surgical site will be tender and sore. If prescribed, take pain medication and antibiotics as instructed.

  • The sutures (stitches) that have been placed must be removed to ensure proper healing. It is important that you return at the appointed time for suture removal.

  • Rinse with one tablespoon (1/2 ounce) of chlorhexidine mouth rinse twice each day for 5 days, beginning the day after surgery.

  • In addition to the prescription mouth rinse, rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm water) 4 to 5 times a day. Avoid brushing your teeth or rinsing you mouth the day of surgery as this can stimulate bleeding.

  • Should any complications arise, do not hesitate to call our office.

If you have any questions, please call our office at (850) 877-0536