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.

BE CAREFUL: Avoid chewing with the treated tooth until the final restoration is completed by

your Restorative Dentist. The tooth is vulnerable to fracture if a crown is not already present, or

if there are existing cracks. A fracture could make the tooth unrestorable and require extraction.

HAVE THE TOOTH RESTORED: If the root canal treatment has been completed, please

schedule an appointment for the final restoration with your Restorative Dentist. If root canal

treatment has not yet been completed, another appointment with our office will be necessary.

The final restoration is ideally placed once the post-operative discomfort has resolved, unless

otherwise advised. 1-3 weeks is the typical timeframe for restoration after the root canal treatment is complete.

Restoration of the tooth is essential for the success of the root canal and survival of the tooth.

FOR PAIN: Please take the following if instructed for pain:

Ibuprofen (Advil / Motrin): 200-600 mg every 4-6 hours if needed for pain. Over-the

counter Ibuprofen pills are 200 mg each.

Do not exceed 3200 mg in a 24 hour period

You may alternatively take Aleve (1 tablet / 220 mg) every 4-6 hours.

Do not exceed 1375 mg in a 24 hour period

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): 325-650 mg every 4-6 hours if needed for pain. (Regular

strength over-the-counter Acetaminophen pills are 325 mg each. “Extra strength” pills

are 500 mg each).

Do not exceed 3000 mg in a 24 hour period (including cold medications)

FOR INFECTION: If antibiotics have been prescribed, it is very important that they are taken

as directed until they are all gone - even if the symptoms have fully subsided. Please note that it

often takes 48-72 hours before the antibiotics can begin to control an infection. During this time,

it is not uncommon for infection, pain, or swelling to actually increase.