Endodontic Treatment FAQs:
Before, During & After Your Root Cana

Before Your Appointment

Do I need to eat before my root canal?
Yes. Unless you’ve been instructed otherwise, eat a normal meal before your appointment since your mouth may remain numb afterward.

Continue taking your prescribed medications unless your doctor or general dentist has instructed you differently.

If instructed by your doctor, taking an anti-inflammatory medication before treatment may help reduce post-operative discomfort.

  • Insurance information
  • Photo ID
  • Referral information (if applicable)
  • List of medications
  • Any recent dental X-rays (if requested)

Most patients can drive themselves after treatment unless sedation has been planned.

During Treatment

Will a root canal hurt?

Modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain—not cause it. Local anesthesia thoroughly numbs the area, and most patients feel only pressure during the procedure

Our specialists often require high-quality digital radiographs or a 3D CBCT scan to accurately diagnose the tooth and plan treatment.

A Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan creates a three-dimensional image of your teeth and surrounding bone. It allows us to identify fractures, hidden canals, infections, and other conditions that cannot always be seen on traditional X-rays.

Occasionally, a previously treated tooth may not heal as expected or may become reinfected. Retreatment allows us to remove the previous filling material, disinfect the canals, and seal the tooth again to improve the chances of saving it.

After Your Procedure

Will I have pain after treatment?

Some tenderness or soreness is normal for several days following treatment. This is part of the natural healing process and can usually be managed with the medications recommended by your doctor

Wait until the numbness has completely worn off before eating. Once sensation returns, choose softer foods and avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until your permanent restoration is completed.

Yes. Continue your normal brushing and flossing routine while being gentle around the treated area.

Schedule your follow-up appointment with your general dentist as soon as possible. Most root canal-treated teeth require a permanent filling or crown to protect the tooth from fracture.

Temporary fillings are not intended to be permanent. You should return to your general dentist promptly to have your final restoration placed.

Recovery & Healing

How long will my tooth be sore?

Most patients notice improvement within a few days, although mild tenderness when biting may continue for one to two weeks depending on the severity of the original infection.

The tissues surrounding the tooth can remain inflamed while they heal. Mild sensitivity is common and usually improves over time. If discomfort worsens instead of improving, contact our office.

Please contact our office as soon as possible. We can determine whether the temporary restoration needs to be replaced before your permanent restoration is completed.

Treatment Decisions

Do I really need a root canal right away, or can I wait?

Delaying treatment allows bacteria to continue spreading inside the tooth and surrounding bone. Waiting may increase discomfort and could reduce the chances of saving the tooth.

Whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the best option. A root canal allows you to keep your natural bite, avoid shifting teeth, and often prevents the need for more extensive treatment such as implants or bridges.

Natural teeth are generally stronger, function more efficiently, and help maintain proper alignment of your other teeth. Preserving your natural tooth is almost always the most conservative treatment option.

Medications

Why did my doctor recommend ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen helps reduce both pain and inflammation after treatment. If ibuprofen is not appropriate for you because of medical conditions or medications, we’ll recommend an alternative that’s safe for your situation.

Please call our office immediately if you experience:

  • Increasing or severe pain that is not improving
  • Significant swelling
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Fever or signs of infection
  • An allergic reaction to medication
  • A lost temporary filling
  • Any other concerns during your recovery