Post-Op Instructions
Your endodontic procedure at Robert Scott Nance, D.D.S., M.S., P.A. is finished, but proper recovery continues after you leave the office. Following clear post-op guidelines in Hickory NC and Statesville NC will help your tooth heal properly and ensure it stays strong for years to come. Most patients experience a smooth recovery, and understanding what to expect can make the process even easier.
Managing Discomfort After Treatment
It’s common to have mild soreness or tenderness around the treated tooth for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen usually provide effective relief. To protect your tooth, avoid chewing on it until your general dentist completes the final restoration, which prevents unnecessary stress during the healing stage.
Oral Care During Recovery
Keep brushing and flossing daily, but be gentle near the treated tooth to avoid irritation. Good hygiene reduces bacteria and helps the area recover faster. If your endodontist prescribed antibiotics, take the full course as directed—even if symptoms improve—to make sure the infection is fully resolved.
Eating and Dietary Guidelines
For the first 24–48 hours, stick to soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, and mashed potatoes to minimize pressure on the tooth. Avoid crunchy, chewy, or sticky foods that could strain or disturb the treated area. As your comfort improves, you can return to your regular diet gradually.
Monitoring Your Progress
Mild sensitivity or swelling is normal in the first few days, but these symptoms should improve steadily. If discomfort persists, swelling increases, or you notice signs of infection such as fever, contact your endodontist immediately. Acting quickly ensures small issues don’t turn into bigger concerns.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care
While endodontic treatment removes infection and saves the tooth, it’s only the first step. A permanent crown or restoration from your general dentist is essential to strengthen and protect the tooth from future damage. Skipping this step can leave the tooth vulnerable to fracture or reinfection.
Do’s and Don’ts After Endodontic Treatment
The Do’s:
- Take all medications as prescribed or recommended.
- Eat soft foods for the first 24–48 hours.
- Brush and floss carefully around the treated area.
- Complete your full antibiotic prescription if given.
- Keep your follow-up appointment for permanent restoration.
- Call your endodontist if pain or swelling worsens.
The Don’ts:
- Don’t chew directly on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored.
- Don’t eat hard, crunchy, or sticky foods too soon.
- Don’t skip or stop medications early.
- Don’t ignore prolonged swelling, fever, or worsening pain.
- Don’t delay your final restoration with your dentist.
Supporting Long-Term Success
Think of recovery as a partnership—you’ve received expert care from our Robert Scott Nance, D.D.S., M.S., P.A. endodontists in Hickory NC and Statesville NC, and now your role is to follow through with post-op instructions. Staying consistent with home care and regular dental visits ensures your tooth heals properly and lasts for years to come. With the right follow-up, most treated teeth remain healthy and functional for a lifetime.
