Endodontic Treatment FAQ
What should I expect after my endodontic treatment?
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 restorative dentist for an appointment in the very near future, but no longer than three weeks if possible. After that time, the possibility for reinfection of the tooth becomes greater.
A complete report of treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. Included in your treatment is a six-month follow-up examination by Dr. Rhome 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. Our front desk staff will be happy to make that appointment before your leaving our office.
Your tooth is more prone to fracture immediately after endodontic treatment. You should chew on the other side until your restorative dentist has placed a core build-up and a protective restoration. Many times a crown will be needed for a back tooth, but a reinforced filling is sometimes sufficient.
Your restorative dentist should make that final decision.
What happens after treatment?
It is rare for our endodontic patients to experience any significant complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. To mitigate any normal postoperative inflammation, a dose or two of Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be needed.
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.
Contact Your Philadelphia Endodontist
Dr. Rhome and his staff strive to provide the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions about what happens after endodontic treatment, we are happy to help. Please contact our Philadelphia office at 215-735-7113.