Any endodontic surgery comes with a necessary period of healing. During the time after treatment, patients may experience a variety of symptoms and need to take precautions for several days or weeks. Endodontic surgeries include an apicoectomy, a root amputation, or a hemisection. The endodontists at Central Ohio Endodontists will create a treatment plan with you that is tailored to your specific tooth.
Need help preparing for endodontic surgery? Have questions about your post-operative recovery? Follow these tips below and contact your endodontist with any questions.
Preparations
You should prepare for both your treatment or surgery and also for the hours and days immediately following. If you are going to be sedated, you should not drive a vehicle for the remainder of the day or perform complicated tasks, including making important decisions. You will need to re-hydrate and should moderate your food intake for the remainder of the day. If you fasted before the procedure, you should eat soft foods that are moderate in temperature. It is important to be cautious of the numbed area while eating and drinking.
Know What’s Normal & What’s Not
During your recovery from endodontic surgery, you can expect swelling, discomfort, tender gums, and possible bleeding. All of these are normal, and your endodontist will give you specific instructions for dealing with these problems. An icepack for the first 24 hours is recommended. It is not unusual to need a pain medication for several days following the procedure. Fever, signs of infection, or trouble swallowing or breathing are not normal. If you experience these symptoms, contact your endodontist immediately.
Treat Pain
It is normal to experience discomfort after endodontic surgery. Many patients report less discomfort following endodontic surgery compared to root canal treatment. Your endodontist may prescribe pain medications, antibiotics, steroids, or other medications for you after surgery. Always follow the directions for these carefully. If your pain does not subside after taking pain medication, you should call your endodontist right away.
Health Guidelines
You will need to follow special instructions for physical activity, eating, drinking, and brushing after your endodontic surgery. A freshly worked-on tooth is prone to injury and physical sports or exercise should be avoided for several days. You should avoid chewing with the affected side of your mouth until the sutures are removed. Do not smoke for 24 hours and avoid drinking alcohol while on medication. Your teeth and gums may be sensitive after endodontic surgery. Your endodontist may advise you to use a different mouthwash or to modify brushing and flossing habits temporarily. Follow all instructions given by your endodontist.
Schedule Your Restoration
After a root canal or other oral procedure, the tooth needs to be restored or finished with a permanent filling, crown, or other device. You will need to schedule this appointment within 6 weeks of the procedure and use caution until the tooth is properly protected.
Call Your Endodontist!
One of the most important things to remember after oral surgery is that the surgeons here at Central Ohio Endodontics are here to help heal you. If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call or schedule an appointment. Although very few patients have complications from oral surgery, we want to assure you we are available for your needs.