Post-Operative Instructions for Root Canal Treatment

Support Healing and Protect Your Tooth After Endodontic Therapy

Root canal therapy saves and restores infected or damaged teeth. After your treatment, it’s essential to follow the instructions below to reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and protect your tooth until a permanent restoration is placed.

What to Expect

It’s normal to feel tenderness around the tooth and jaw for a few days.

You may feel mild pressure or sensitivity when biting down—this usually improves within 3–5 days.

If the treatment was staged, you may have a temporary filling or medicated dressing placed until the final restoration.

Pain & Medications

Take any prescribed medications as directed. Most patients manage well with over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen or paracetamol.

Start pain medication before the numbness wears off.

If antibiotics were prescribed, complete the full course—even if symptoms improve.

Oral Hygiene

Continue brushing and flossing as normal, but be gentle around the treated area.

Do not avoid cleaning the tooth—it’s important to keep the area free of debris and plaque.

Eating & Drinking

Wait until the numbness fully wears off before eating.

If a temporary filling or crown was placed:

  • Avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge it.
  • Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

Stay hydrated, but avoid very hot beverages for the first 24 hours.

Follow-Up & Restoration

If you have a temporary filling or crown, it’s important to return for your final restoration within the recommended timeframe (usually 1–3 weeks).

Delaying final restoration increases the risk of reinfection or fracture.

Contact Us If You Notice:

Severe pain or swelling that worsens after 3 days

Fever or signs of infection

A cracked or lost temporary filling/crown

Persistent numbness, bad taste, or pus