This procedure will be performed using local anesthesia.  There are usually no restrictions after the procedure concerning driving or returning to work.  Your doctor is available for consultation at all times should a problem arise after your treatment.

Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems and any other conditions as recommended by your physician.  If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.

Please eat a full breakfast or lunch as applicable.

If you have been advised by your physician to use antibiotic premedication because of hip, knee, cardiac or other prosthesis, or if you have rhueumatic heart disease, history of infective endocarditis, or congenital heart defect, please make sure you are on the appropriate antibiotic on the day of your appointment.  If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.

If you can take ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), it does help reduce inflammation when taken pre-operatively.  We recommend 2 tablets of either medication 2-4 hours before endodontic therapy.

Endodontic treatment has now been completed.  The root canal system has been permanently sealed.  However, the outer surface is sealed with a temporary restoration.  A follow-up restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay.  Please telephone your general dentist for an appointment.  A complete report of treatment will be sent to your general dentist.  Included in your treatment is a follow-up examination to evaluate the progress of healing.  This appointment will require only a few minutes and no additional fee will be charged for the first check-up visit. 

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 general 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 our office immediately (661-322-2071).  The office telephone is answered day and night.  If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.

Once endodontic therapy is completed your tooth should be examined periodically, usually every 6 - 12 months.  This allows us to make sure the tooth has healed or is healing properly.  You will be sent a notice in the mail when we feel it is appropriate to reevaluate the area.  Since an abscess may take 2 years to heal, our office will reevaluate the tooth for at least 2 years.