The root canal system inside your tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, and the irritated tissue and bacteria that have caused you to need root canal treatment have been removed. However, depending on the nature of your pre-treatment pathology there may still be bacteria or inflamed tissue surrounding the root tip that can cause post treatment discomfort, and sometimes post treatment swelling. Antibiotics and your body's immune system usually aid these situations to heal. It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area over the next few days as your body undergoes the natural healing process.

These symptoms are temporary and usually respond very well to over-the-counter pain medications. It is important for you to follow the instructions on how to take these medications. Remember that narcotic medications, if prescribed, may make you drowsy, and caution should be exercised in operating dangerous machinery or driving a car after taking them. Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after you completed root canal treatment. However, if you have severe pain or pressure that lasts more than a few days, contact your endodontist.

Do not eat anything until the numbness in your mouth wears off. This will prevent you from biting your check or tongue.

Do not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist. Try to avoid hard or sticky foods while in a temporary.

Be sure to brush and floss your teeth as your normally would.

If the opening in your tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual for a thin layer to wear off in-between appointments. However, if you think the entire filling has come out, contact your endodontist or dentist.

Contact your endodontist right way if you develop any of the following:

• A visible swelling inside or outside of your mouth
• An allergic reaction to medication, including: Rash, Hives, or Itching (nausea is not an allergic reaction)
• A return of original symptoms

Endodontic treatment is only one step in returning your tooth to full function. A proper restoration of the tooth is critical in ensuring long-term success. Failure to properly restore the tooth can result in recontamination of the canal system and re-infection. Contact your dentist within two weeks to arrange your next appointment. If your tooth is being treated in more than one visit by an endodontist, do not return to your dentist for the final restoration until the root canal treatment is completed.