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After Endodontic Treatment

Your root canal treatment is now complete, and the root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface is only temporarily sealed with a temporary restoration. A permanent restoration is required to protect your tooth from fracture and decay. Please contact your dentist to schedule an appointment to do the permanent restoration. The permanent restoration should be done between 1 to 4 weeks after your root canal. A full report of your treatment will be sent to your dentist.

Important Aftercare
Immediately after endodontic treatment, your tooth is more vulnerable to fracture. To avoid damage, please refrain from chewing on the treated side until your dentist places a core build-up and permanent protective restoration (usually a crown). If the tooth’s structure is significantly compromised, your endodontist or dentist may recommend placing a post and core build-up inside the tooth. Both specialists will determine the best restoration to safeguard your tooth.

Are There Any Potential Problems After Treatment?

 
  • Lower teeth and nerve injury: There is a small risk of nerve injury during root canal surgery, especially in the lower back teeth. The root tips of these teeth are close to a nerve that supplies sensation to the lip, chin, and gums. Your endodontist will assess this risk and take measures to minimize it. In rare cases, nerve irritation can occur, causing tingling, altered sensation, or, in rare instances, a complete loss of feeling in the affected area. This is typically temporary and resolves within days, weeks, or months. In rare cases, these sensations may be permanent or painful.
  • Upper teeth and sinus communication: Since upper teeth are near the sinuses, root canal surgery (apicoectomy) may occasionally create a communication between your mouth and the sinus. This complication usually heals on its own. If this occurs, we will provide specific instructions. We recommend avoiding blowing your nose for 2-3 days after surgery, and if you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open into a tissue. Do not create pressure in the sinus area. If you experience any issues, please contact us.
  • Post-operative infections: Infections can occasionally occur after treatment. Typically, a simple office visit and examination, along with a short course of antibiotics, will resolve the infection. In some cases, additional follow-up procedures may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 408-263-6660

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