Instructions for Endodontic Treatment

Here in Fort Worth, we understand that undergoing root canal therapy, an apicoectomy, or another endodontic procedure is a big commitment, which is why our team does its best to help you be a fully informed participant every step of the way. Below, you can find tips and guidelines for how to best handle yourself before and after your actual treatment, as well as possible situations that could occur afterwards you should be aware of. If you’re in need of further instruction, simply contact Premier Endodontics today to talk to one of our dedicated team members. We look forward to improving your oral health and happiness!

Before Your Endodontic Treatment

• It’s virtually always fine to continue using medications recommended for certain conditions by physician, such as blood pressure, thyroid problems or diabetes.
• If your physician has advised you to take certain antibiotic medications for heart disease, heart murmurs, or a hip or knee prosthetic, please take it before your appointment.
• Taking Advil or Aleve before your procedure can actually help reduce discomfort afterwards. We recommend taking a recommended dose a few hours before you arrive at our Ft. Worth, TX practice.
• We will always perform endodontic procedures with general anesthesia for your comfort. If no additional sedation techniques are used, it should be fine for the patient to return to work and/or drive themselves following their appointment at Premier Endodontics. If significant pain, bleeding, or other issue arises, please contact us right away for assistance.

General Home Care

• Increased tenderness and/or sensitivity is expected following your endodontic treatment, and patients shouldn’t worry. The sensation should lessen after a period of several days.
• Unless your treated tooth has been restored by your general dentist or our team has fully completed your treatment, do NOT chew food on the affected side of your mouth.
• Please continue your oral hygiene routine following your treatment.
• If you experience discomfort, it’s fine to take regular painkillers to relieve these symptoms.

Potential Concerns Following Treatment

• Dr. Creasy has undergone specialized training and education to provide root canal treatment that’s exceptionally precise – but there’s still a small chance during the procedure that a nerve could be irritated in the process. If this happens, patients may experience symptoms like numbness or tingling in the affected area that will resolve over a certain period of time. We’ll be sure to assess your risk beforehand and review this possibility with you so that you can feel confident going into treatment.
• Root canal therapy could also result in an unexpected opening that directly connects your mouth and one of your sinuses. Once our Ft. Worth team has identified the situation, we can provide instructions on how to best manage it until healing occurs. Typically, we recommend that patients avoid blowing their nose, using a straw, or playing any kind of wind instrument.  If you fear that complications are occurring, contact us right away.
• Infection is also a possibility in the days following your treatment. Dr. Creasy can provide an antibiotic in these cases or another procedure that can effectively treat your condition.

If you experience post-operative discomfort or sensitivity that isn’t being controlled by medication and doesn’t improve over time, please contact our Fort Worth practice as soon as possible for experienced help from Dr. Joseph Creasy and our other team members.