Home Care Instructions

Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. Do not chew food on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist. You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen. Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed.

NOTE: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, or should swelling develop, please contact this office immediately.

Home Care Instructions (Surgery)

Following Endodontic Surgery the tooth and surrounding gum tissues may be sore and some swelling can be expected.  Follow these instructions for proper care of the surgical site after Endodontic Surgery.

  • Do not lift up the lip or look at the incision as this can pull the stitches out.
  • For the first 5 hours after the surgery place ice on the area 30 min on and 10 min off.  After the first 5 hours place ice for 20 min on and 20 min off for the first 24 hours.
  • Do not brush in the area of the incision for the first 48 hours. You will be given an antibacterial mouth rinse to use instead. Follow the directions for the mouth rinse. Continue to brush the other areas of your mouth as usual.  After 48 hours you can brush the area of the incision (brush from the gums to the tooth to avoid lifting up the gum tissues and pulling on the stitches.)
  • Do not eat anything with seeds, sharp or pointy edges such as chips, pretzels, crusty bread as these may injure the tissue or sutures.
  • Have your prescriptions filled and take as directed.
  • After 48 hrs you can begin warm salt water rinses to help in the healing of the tissue.
  • The stitches will be removed a week after surgery even though the stitches may be dissolvable.
  • If some oozing of blood is noticeable place a moist gauze over the area and apply pressure. If excessive bleeding occurs place a wet tea bag inside the mouth at the surgical area and press firmly on OUTSIDE of cheek for 1/2 hour. Keep head elevated. If bleeding persists, call the office.
  • Some bruising and swelling is normal after surgery.

The office telephone is answered day and night. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.

If you have any questions, please call our office at Noblesville Office Phone Number 317-399-7255