Treatment Instructions

Before Root Canal Treatment

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

  • Please eat a full breakfast or lunch as applicable.
  • Bring all referral information in your possession (referral note, x-rays etc.) to the initial visit.
  • If radiographs have been forwarded to our office, please confirm our receipt.
  • If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic premedication because of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), heart murmur, hip or cardiac prosthesis, or rheumatic heart disease, 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.
  • Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, and any other conditions as recommended by your physician. Again, 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 prior to endodontic therapy.
  • A parent or guardian must accompany all patients under the age of 18.

At each visit to our office, report any changes in your health status.

PRE-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE SURGERY

In order to obtain the desired result from therapy and minimize swelling and discomfort, please follow these instructions:

  • If your medical doctor has prescribed any anticoagulants, please let us know so that we may discuss it with your MD.
  • Remember to have a light meal e.g. breakfast if surgery is in the morning or lunch if in the afternoon. This is especially important for those patients who have low blood sugar, are on diabetic medication or have been dieting.
    Wear loose comfortable clothing. Do not use makeup.
  • Take all prescribed medications as directed. Antibiotics, unless advised otherwise, are normally taken with a full glass of water on an empty stomach 1/2 – 1 hour before meals or 2 or more hours after eating. Pain medication should be taken with food to minimize nausea. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery, while under the influence of prescription pain medication e.g. codeine, narcotics, etc.
  • Good oral hygiene promotes healing. Ensure that you have brushed and flossed your teeth prior to your surgical visit. If your gums bleed or you have difficulty flossing the area, please arrange for your dentist to clean your teeth prior to surgery.
  • It is recommended (but not essential) that someone accompanies you to the surgical visit to assist with transportation home afterwards.