After Completion of 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. A complete report of treatment will be sent to your restorative 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 6 month check-up visit. Please call for an appointment at the 6 month recall. 

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, usually a crown. If your tooth’s strength is seriously compromised, your endodontist or restorative dentist may place a post and core build-up inside the tooth. Your restorative dentist and endodontist will determine the appropriate restoration to best protect your tooth.

Are There Any Potential Problems After Treatment?

• Lower teeth and nerve injury. There is a slight possibility that nerve injury can occur during root canal surgery to the lower posterior teeth. Your endodontist is trained to assess this possibility prior to treatment and will advise you accordingly. For lower posterior teeth, the root tips may be near a nerve that supplies feeling to the lip, chin and gums. Your endodontist is trained to design your surgery to minimize the chances of damaging this nerve. Rarely, this nerve can become irritated during the process of surgery. In these cases, when the local anesthesia wears off, you may experience tingling, altered sensation or, in rare cases a complete lack of feeling in the affected tissues. Should this occur, it is usually temporary and will resolve over a period of days, weeks or months. In rare cases, these changes can be permanent and/or painful.
• Upper teeth and sinus communication. The upper teeth are situated near your sinuses, and root canal surgery can result in a communication between your mouth and the adjacent sinus. Should this complication occur, it will usually heal spontaneously. We will give you special instructions if this is apparent at the time of surgery. We prefer that you don’t blow your nose for two to three days after surgery. If you have to sneeze, you should sneeze with an open mouth into a tissue. You should not create any pressure in the sinus area. If you sense a complication after surgery, please contact us.
• Post-operative infections. Post-operative infections occasionally occur. This usually requires just an office visit and examination. Many times placing you on an antibiotic for one week will take care of the infection Occasionally, other follow-up procedures will be needed.

If you have any questions, please call our office at Thomas K. Nasser, DDS Phone Number 317-844-7833

After Treatment FAQs

How long will my tooth be sensitive after a root canal?
It is normal for your tooth and surrounding tissue to feel tender for a few days after treatment due to inflammation and the previous infection. This discomfort typically improves as healing progresses.

Can I eat normally after my endodontic treatment?
You should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your general dentist places a permanent restoration such as a crown. This helps prevent fracture while the tooth is still vulnerable.

Why do I need a crown after a root canal?
After treatment, the inside of the tooth is sealed but the outer portion may have a temporary filling. A permanent restoration helps protect the tooth from breaking and prevents future decay.

What should I do if my tooth hurts after treatment?
Mild discomfort is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication if recommended by your dentist. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, you should contact the office.

Is it normal to have numbness or tingling after treatment?
In rare cases, especially with lower teeth, temporary nerve irritation may cause tingling or altered sensation. This usually resolves on its own but you should contact your endodontist if symptoms persist.

Can a root canal cause sinus problems?
Because upper back teeth are close to the sinus cavity, there is a small chance of sinus communication after treatment. This usually heals on its own, but patients may be advised to avoid blowing their nose for a few days.

What are signs of infection after a root canal?
Signs may include increasing pain, swelling, fever, or discharge. If you notice these symptoms, you should call your endodontist for evaluation.

Do I need a follow-up visit after treatment?
Yes. A follow-up exam is usually recommended about six months after treatment to make sure the tooth is healing properly.

When should I call the office after my procedure?
You should contact the office if you experience severe pain, swelling, allergic reactions to medication, or if your temporary filling comes out.