Your visit will begin with a comprehensive consultation and examination. At that time, we will evaluate the area of concern, take any necessary diagnostic images, review your medical history, and determine whether root canal treatment is indicated. We will also discuss the expected success of treatment, associated costs, and alternative treatment options so that you can make an informed decision about your care.
In most cases, treatment is scheduled for a separate appointment following the consultation. This allows time to properly plan your treatment. In some cases an oral medication is used to make the appointment more relaxing, those patients will need to arrange for a responsible adult to provide transportation to and from the treatment appointment.
Pre-Treatment Instructions:
Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems and any other condition as recommended by your physician. If you have a questions not answered at the consultation, please call our office prior to your treatment appointment.
- Pre-medicate with antibiotics if you have been advised by your physician or dentist to do so.
- If you have a need to pre-medicate with a sedative, our office will have sent the prescription with directions to the pharmacy prior to your appointment. Remember to have a driver and please bring the bottle to your appointment
- Eat regular meals before your appointment.
- All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian.
Post -Treatment Care
It is normal to feel tenderness in the area over the next few days during the healing process. The intensity and duration is dependent upon the level of discomfort prior to treatment due to the condition of the tooth and nearby tissues. Symptoms usually respond very well to over-the-counter pain medications - if you have pain that is not resolved with medications, then please inform our office.
Guidelines for Post-Treatment Care:
- Avoid eating with the tooth for a day to avoid dislodging the temporary filling and to prevent soreness.
- Your tooth may have limited remaining tooth structure after treatment Be careful when biting or chewing hard foods to avoid tooth fracture until your final filling or crown can be placed permanently which will protect your tooth.
- Be cautious if eating with your numb lip or tongue
- Call your general dentist to make an appointment for the permanent restoration - this should be completed within a month.