You have a temporary filling placed in your tooth. It is important that you do not eat anything sticky or chewy, such as gum, caramel, tootsie rolls, etc… until the tooth has been properly restored by your general dentist. Sometimes the temporary filling will sink slightly and will give your tongue the feeling that it has fallen out. Usually it is still here. If you look at the tooth and the filling is not there, places contact our office since it is important that the tooth remain sealed.
Hot/Cold Sensitivity will be gone, but the tooth may be sore to bite on or to touch. This is due to inflammation that needs time to subside, usually 2-3 days.
Prescription antibiotics or medications are rarely needed following an appointment. If you have been prescribed a medication, please take it exactly as directed. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 400mg – 800mg (2-4 tabs) taken every 6 hours will keep you comfortable for the next 2-3 days. DO NOT EXCEED 3200mg (16 tabs) in a 24 hour period. If you cannot take Ibprofen, take Tylenol (acetaminophen) 1000mg (2 tabs) every 6 hours. DO NOT EXCEED 3000mg (8 tabs) in a 24 hour period. Do not consume alcohol while taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) due to possible liver damage.
Until the tooth is restored by your general dentist, it is fragile and may crack or break, which could result in the loss of the tooth. Do not eat anything crunchy or hard on the tooth until the root canal treatment has been completed and your dentist has restored the tooth. Examples of food that you should NOT eat until the crown is placed: ice, popcorn, peanuts, pizza crust, tootsie rolls, etc…
Please continue to brush and floss the tooth, unless instructed not to floss due to placement of the temporary filling.
A proper final restoration of the tooth is extremely important in ensuring long term success. Contact your dentist within two weeks to arrange your next appointment.