Endodontic Instructions

After Apicoectomy - Post Operative Instructions

Smoking

Smoking will impair your ability to heal and is proven to cause a need for Root Canals.

We recommend speaking with your local pharmacy about smoking cessation products and using Nicoderm PATCH (not gum) for 1 day prior and 6 days after Endodontic Surgery.

We are advising you
“NO SMOKING UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.”

Read the ConsumerAffairs.com article "Cigarette Smoking Leads to Root Canal".

Bleeding

Slight bleeding is expected. If prolonged or excessive, apply gauze with light pressure. Avoid unnecessary rinsing, spitting and the use of a straw until the sutures are removed. Do not use hot compresses and avoid very hot or cold foods in the first 24 hours after surgery. You should avoid lifting heavy objects and refrain from excessive talking and laughter so as not to disrupt your stitches.

Swelling

Apply the cold compress in 15 minute intervals for the day of the surgery. The earlier this is started, the more effective this will be. Keep your head elevated and use an extra pillow under your head the first 2 nights taking care to sleep on your back. You may experience bruising, swelling and/or soreness within 48 hours of the procedure. This is normal.

Diet

Your tooth and its surrounding gum tissue will be tender for the next 4-6 days. Do not be surprised if you cannot place pressure on, or eat with this tooth for a few days. Avoid chewing hard foods and do not eat very grainy foods (ex. granola, popcorn) or fruits with thick skins (ex. apples).

Prescriptions

Immediately following the procedure begin taking medications as directed to minimize discomfort, which occurs when the anaesthesia wears off. It is most important to use the Ice Compress we give you. Apply cold to minimize swelling.

If any additional information is needed, please feel free to contact our office! Thank you.

1 Week After the Apicoectomy Procedure

Return for your follow up/suture removal visit one week after treatment. This should take15 minutes. Your dentist will be informed that your treatment is completed and a final radiograph will be sent to his/her office for your dental records along with a progress report of your treatment.

6 Months After the Apicoectomy Procedure

You will need to schedule an appointment with this office to have the tooth re-evaluated in six months time. You will receive a letter in the mail urging you to make this appointment. There is no charge for this follow-up visit. During this visit a new x-ray will be taken to document the healed tooth and gum.

Emergencies

In a small percentage of cases, patients may experience severe postoperative pain and/or swelling which could occur and persist for 3-5 days. If you experience pain that is not relieved by the prescribed medications please contact the office during regular business hours at 705-750-0700. Should a severe emergency situation arise after our normal office hours, you can reach the Doctor directly at 705-772-9070. The doctor will return your call as soon as possible. Every effort is made to return patient’s messages immediately, however circumstances occasionally require a slight delay. In the event the call is not answered within 15 minutes please send an email to .