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Information Following Endodontic Surgery

  1. Discomfort following surgery is normal, but severe pain seldom occurs.  Following the recommended use of analgesic (pain relieving) medications will minimize your discomfort.
  2. Slight bleeding may occur following the procedure.  Application of light pressure over the area will help control minor bleeding.  Directions:  Roll up a piece of gauze, moisten and place directly on the area of bleeding. Use an ice pack to apply light pressure on the outside of your face.
  3. Bruising on the outside of your face may occur and typically resolves within a week.
  4. Slight swelling of your face may occur and typically resolves within a week.

What To Do

  1. Resting for the remainder of the day is recommended.  The following day you may perform most normal daily activities, however avoid vigorous exercise / activities as these may cause bleeding and discomfort at the surgery site.
  2. Apply cold (ice pack or cold compress) to the outside of your face over the surgical area for 10 minute increments once or twice per hour throughout the first day.  This will help minimize swelling and discomfort.
  3. Do Not lift your lips to "look" at the surgery area and minimize chewing on the treated side.  It is possible to tear sutures, open the incision, and delay healing.
  4. A soft diet is recommended for the first 2 days.
  5. Very gentle brushing of the teeth in the surgical area is recommended starting the day after surgery to help remove plaque and impacted food.  Our staff will review the proper technique with you.  Avoid brushing the teeth in the surgical area for the first day only.  Flossing in the surgical area may typically be resumed 10-14 days following surgery.
  6. An antibacterial mouthwash will be prescribed.  Starting the day after surgery use twice a day (after breakfast and before bed) for 14 days.  DO NOT vigorously rinse your mouth.
  7. An antibiotic medication may be prescribed.

Sutures may begin to unravel and come out before your follow-up appointment.  If this occurs within the first 2 days, then call the office as additional sutures may need to be placed.  If this occurs after the second day and the gum tissue remains in place, then you may trim any hanging or loose sutures.