My dentist already took my X-ray and said I need root canal treatment. Do I need to have another consultation at the specialist's office?
Yes! While your dentist is probably right, we must verify that the tooth indeed requires endodontic treatment for both medical and legal reasons. We are responsible for making sure that treatment on the correct tooth is warranted. We take our own digital radiographs at various different angles. Radiographs alone are not sufficient for diagnosis. Early stages of pulp degeneration and some small abscess are not visible on the X-rays. Hence the importance of a specialist consultation where all the necessary tests are performed to make a definitive diagnosis.
My dentist already prescribed antibiotics and pain medications. Do I continue to take them before my consultation visit with the specialist?
If you have pain, swelling, fever and/or already started the course of antibiotics that was prescribed, please continue to take them as directed. However, please do not take any pain medication or anit-inflammatory drugs, prescribed or over-the-counter, at least 8 hours prior to your appointment. These drugs can skew the test results and may prevent us from making a definitive diagnosis. Please take your other medications, just not your pain medications.
Will the treatment be painful?
We will take every measure to ensure that your procedure is in no way uncomfortable or painful. If treatment is needed, we will inject a small amount of anesthesia to gently numb a concentrated area of your mouth. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after 2-3 hours.
Will I need to return to your office for follow-ups after the procedure is finished?
Yes, for most root canal treatments, we recommend that patients return to the office 1 year after the procedure was finished. Our office will send a reminder notice to you when you are due for a recall appointment.
What can I expect after having a root canal?
Please do not eat or chew until the normal sensation of your mouth is returned. Chewing or eating while part of your mouth is still numb may cause accidental damage to the cheek or tongue and this can be very painful once the anesthesia wears off.
While most of the patients report of a great relief of pain after endodontic therapy, it is normal to have post-operative discomfort for a few days after the treatment. The post-operative pain may get a bit worse before getting better if you already have severe pain and/or swelling before the treatment. We will prescribe necessary medications for you and usually you will be fine after a few days. Should you have more concerns, please feel free to contact us.