AFTER EACH APPOINTMENT

It is important to remember that your tooth is not dead, nor will our treatment cause it to die.  Our treatment takes place within the spaces in the internal part of the tooth.  The outer portions of your tooth and the tissues that hold the tooth in place all remain alive and may be sensitive to the ongoing dental therapy.  Although many people do not experience any discomfort between visits, do not be alarmed if you experience soreness or sensitivity.  This is a normal reaction and usually lasts only a few days.

Inflammation is the process responsible for causing discomfort.   The tissue inside your tooth and the bone surrounding your tooth are already inflamed from the disease process.  Our work (administering local anesthetic to insure your comfort and removing the diseased tissue inside your tooth) may temporarily add to the inflammation already present in the area.  If you allow this inflammation to escalate, you are more likely to experience discomfort after the visit.  Ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin, Motrin) is a very good anti-inflammatory agent.  If begun immediately after treatment, 800 mg of ibuprofen every eight hours for three doses works very well to prevent or minimize discomfort.  Aspirin is less effective, and Tylenol is of no benefit.   I recommend 800 mg of ibuprofen as soon as possible after each appointment.   Every eight hours take an additional 800 mg until your tooth is comfortable.  If you don't take the ibuprofen immediately and the inflammation escalates into a toothache, no matter what you do, or what you take, you will likely experience greater discomfort for a longer period of time.  Do not take ibuprofen before consulting with Dr. Evans.

A temporary filling will be placed in your tooth.  It is normal for a thin layer of this material to wash away.  This may feel like a large hole to your tongue.  Should all the temporary filling come out (or if you are in doubt), call the office.  Chewing avoidance will lessen the chance of problems with the temporary filling.  Don't bite on, chew on, or test the tooth until the endodontic treatment is complete and your permanent restoration has been placed.   This will minimize the possibility of discomfort and breakage.

If swelling or severe pain (not controlled by the ibuprofen) should occur, please phone the office.  Your cooperation with the above is important.   If you have any questions or problems concerning your treatment, please contact our office.