After your root canal treatment, it's really important to let your tooth settle. So, try not to eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes — this gives the temporary filling time to harden properly. Also, avoid poking or touching your tooth with your tongue during this time.

Managing Any Discomfort

If we gave you any medications, please take them exactly as we advised. If not, over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or paracetamol (Tylenol) can help ease any pain or swelling. Just make sure you follow the instructions on the label, and if the pain feels worse or doesn’t go away, please give us a call — we want to make sure you’re comfortable.

Swelling? Here’s How to Help

It’s normal to notice some swelling after your treatment. To reduce it, gently apply a cold compress to your cheek near the treated tooth. Remember, don’t put ice directly on your skin — wrap it in a cloth first. Use it for about 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off, and keep this up for the first 6 to 8 hours if you need.

Eating and Chewing Tips

When you’re ready to eat again, be careful not to chew on the side where we treated your tooth. The temporary filling or crown is still soft and can easily break if you bite down on hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candy. You might also notice some sensitivity — this is completely normal until you get your permanent crown or filling.

What’s Next?

You’ll need to see your regular dentist within the next month to get your permanent crown or filling. It’s really important not to wait too long because the temporary filling can break, or the tooth might get new decay.

Keeping Things Clean

Keep brushing and flossing as usual, but be gentle around the treated tooth. This helps keep your mouth healthy while it heals.

If Your Temporary Filling Comes Out

It’s rare, but sometimes the temporary filling might come loose or fall out. If that happens, give us a call as soon as you can. If it happens outside our office hours, you can pick up some temporary filling material at a pharmacy to cover the tooth until you see us.

A Little Discomfort Is Normal

It’s common to feel some soreness or mild pain for a few days, sometimes even a few weeks. If the pain gets worse or just doesn’t improve, don’t hesitate to reach out.

A Quick Word About Flare-Ups

Though uncommon, about 1 in 20 people can have a flare-up after a root canal. This might mean sudden, strong pain, swelling, or throbbing around the tooth. Flare-ups are more likely if the tooth was badly infected or had previous treatment. Even if you’ve had root canals before with no issues, it can still happen.

If you notice these symptoms, please contact us right away. We might need to give you extra medicine or see you for further care.

To Sum It Up

• Wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking after your treatment.

• Take your medications as directed or use ibuprofen/paracetamol if needed.

• Use a cold compress (with a cloth) to reduce swelling.

• Avoid chewing on the treated side until your permanent crown or filling is in place.

• Keep brushing and flossing gently.

• Contact us if your temporary filling falls out or if you have severe pain or swelling.

If you’re ever unsure or have questions, just call us. We want you to heal well and feel comfortable every step of the way.