Pre Endodontic Treatment

• This procedure will be performed using local anesthesia. Most patients can drive themselves and return to work afterward.
• A doctor is available at all times should any issues arise after your treatment.
• Continue taking all prescribed medications for conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or thyroid disorders—unless directed otherwise by your physician.
• If your physician or dentist has advised antibiotic premedication, please take the prescribed dose on the day of your appointment.
• If approved by your doctor, you may take 2 tablets of ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) about 2–4 hours before your appointment to help reduce inflammation and post-treatment discomfort.

Post Treatment Care Instructions

Thank you for choosing HTX Endodontics as your root canal specialist. As the medication used to numb your mouth during the procedure wears off, you may feel some tenderness in the area for a few days as everything heals and some mild soreness in your jaw from keeping your mouth open for an extended period during the procedure.

Expect Discomfort

This is normal and should be expected, particularly when chewing on or touching the tooth. Different teeth and patients respond differently, however discomfort typically lasts for less than a week. It can last longer in some instances. Typically the more pain experienced prior to the treatment, the more discomfort can be expected following the procedure. Take medications as directed and contact the office if you have any concerns. These temporary symptoms usually respond well to over-the-counter medication. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions for medications and if narcotics is prescribed remember that narcotics can make you drowsy so you should exercise caution when taking them and driving a car or operating dangerous machinery.

Though you may experience a slightly different sensation from your treated tooth than your other teeth for some time, you should contact your endodontist immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Severe pain lasting more than a few days
• Swelling inside or outside the mouth
• Allergic reaction (rash, hives, itching)
• Uneven bite
• Loss of temporary crown or filling (small loss is normal)
• Return of symptoms experienced before treatment

Be Careful

• Do not chew with the treated tooth until your restorative dentist completes the final restoration (such as a crown).
• The tooth is vulnerable to fracture if it doesn’t already have a crown or has existing cracks.
• A fracture could make the tooth unrestorable and may lead to extraction.
• After a root canal, take special care of the tooth for a few weeks or until it's fully restored.
• You may brush and floss normally, but be gentle around the treated area.
• Avoid chewing hard foods or biting down heavily with the treated tooth until your dentist clears you to do so.
• For the first hour after treatment, do not chew, drink hot or cold liquids, or smoke.
• Avoid smoking during the healing process—it can slow down or interfere with healing.

Pain Management

• Ibuprofen (Advil / Motrin):
  • Take 200–800 mg every 6–8 hours as needed for dental pain relief.
  • Over-the-counter tablets are typically 200 mg each.
  • Do not exceed 3200 mg within a 24-hour period.
• Aleve (Naproxen Sodium):
  • Take 1 tablet (220 mg) every 4–6 hours.
  • Do not exceed 1375 mg in a 24-hour period.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol):
  • Take 325–650 mg every 4–6 hours if needed for pain relief.
  • Regular strength tablets are 325 mg; extra strength tablets are 500 mg.
  • Do not exceed 3000 mg in a 24-hour period (including any cold or flu medications containing acetaminophen).
• Narcotic Analgesics (e.g., Norco, Tylenol #3):
  • Take only as prescribed by your dentist or physician.
  • Use caution—these medications can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery while taking them.
  • Many narcotics contain acetaminophen. Adjust your Tylenol intake accordingly to avoid overdose.

If You Were Prescribed Antibiotics

You must take them exactly as directed and continue until the entire course is completed even if your symptoms go away before finishing. Keep in mind that antibiotics may take 48 to 72 hours to begin effectively controlling an infection. During this time, it is not uncommon to experience a temporary increase in pain, swelling, or other symptoms. This is a normal part of the healing process, but if you have concerns, please contact our office.

Final Restoration

If your root canal treatment is complete, schedule a follow-up with your restorative dentist within 1–3 weeks. A proper restoration is essential for long-term tooth survival.

Need Help?

For further assistance, contact us at dr.m@htxendo.com, or call (713) 589-3083.