After Root Canal Surgery  

 

Ice pack: You will be given an ice pack to apply to the outside of your face over the area of the surgery. The ice pack should be used for 2 hours after surgery using the following pattern:  Hold the ice pack against the cheek for 5 to 10 minutes, then remove the ice pack for 2 minutes, hold the ice pack against the cheek for 5 to 10 minutes, then remove the ice pack for 2 minutes. Continue this pattern for 2 hours.

Gauze: There will be gauze around the stitches in your mouth following surgery. Remove the gauze 2 hours after surgery. It is normal to have a small amount of blood on the gauze.

Eating: Do not eat solid food while you are still numb. However, drinking liquids is okay. It usually takes two to three hours for the anesthesia to wear off. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth for the first week following surgery.

Brushing teeth: Do not brush the area around the stitches for one week. You should brush the other teeth in your mouth.

Warm Salt Water Rinses: Use warm salt rinses 2 to 3 times every day for one week beginning the day after surgery. Mix 1 tablespoon of salt in an 8 ounce glass of warm, not hot, water. Stir the salt until it is dissolved. Swish the water around in your mouth and then spit it out. Do not swallow the salt water. Continue the process until the glass is empty. 

Medications: Take as directed.