After root canal therapy

While you’re still numb

Numbness typically lasts two to four hours after treatment. You may drink right away, but wait to chew until sensation fully returns so you don’t bite your lip, cheek, or tongue, and then use the untreated side.

What’s normal

Some soreness and tenderness when biting is expected for a few days, and occasionally up to a week or two, particularly if the tooth was painful or infected before treatment. The tissue around the tooth was inflamed before we started and takes time to settle. A temporary filling may feel slightly high at first.

Managing discomfort

Staying ahead of discomfort works far better than chasing it. Follow the anti-inflammatory schedule your doctor gave you, on schedule, rather than only when pain appears. If you can’t take anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, tell us and we’ll recommend an alternative.

Eating and daily activity

Avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until your general dentist places the permanent restoration. Softer foods for the first day or two are easier. Otherwise, resume normal activity, brushing, and flossing right away.

See your general dentist promptly

Your tooth is not finished until the permanent restoration is placed. The remaining structure is weaker than before and a temporary filling is not built to last. Book that appointment as soon as your dentist can see you. Waiting too long is one of the most common reasons an otherwise successful root canal later fails.

When to call us

Call (206) 633-3636 if you experience: swelling inside or outside the mouth; pain that is worsening rather than improving after the first few days; a reaction to prescribed medication; your bite feeling noticeably uneven; or if the temporary filling comes out. For a true emergency outside office hours, such as swelling spreading toward the eye or neck, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, go to an emergency room.