Root Canals and Oral Surgery

Even with proper brushing and flossing each day, we sometimes cannot avoid cavities or other oral health problems. At some point, you may need an oral surgery procedure. Oral surgery includes: 

• Removing impacted teeth
• Removing wisdom teeth 
• Dental implants 
• Some snoring/sleep apnea correction 
• Extraction 
• Root canal

Root Canals

While people often feel nervous about root canals, if you’re experiencing severe pain, you’ll actually find a root canal to be a relief. During a root canal, your dentist or endodontist will remove the dead or decaying nerve of your tooth, which is causing infection and pain. Learn more about the root canal procedure. Dr. Banik will inform you if you need a root canal and may refer you to an endodontist.

In the days following your root canal, you may experience some tenderness in the treatment area as well as in the jaw. Take any prescribed medication until its completion or regularly take any over-the-counter pain medications as needed. However, if severe pain or pressure lasts more than a few days, contact Dr. Banik immediately. We also recommend you contact us if you experience any visible swelling, an allergic reaction to the medication, a return of your original symptoms, an uneven bite, or if you think your tooth filling has come out. Avoid eating until the numbness has worn off and be careful not to bite or chew on the treated teeth as you normally would.

Oral Surgery After Care Instructions 

After having oral surgery, you can expect bleeding or “oozing” within the first 12 to 24 hours as well as some swelling and discomfort within the first five days following the procedure. If bleeding persists, we recommend biting on some gauze for at least two hours and avoiding excessive spitting or sucking. If the bleeding becomes excessive and cannot be controlled, contact Dr. Banik immediately. In addition to taking any pain medication as directed, we recommend avoiding smoking until the healing process is complete. Dr. Banik also asks patients to stay away from physical activity for at least 48 hours and maintain a healthy intake of soft foods and lots of liquids (at least 2 quarts a day). Swelling can be controlled with a cold compress used every half hour for the first 8 to 12 hours. If swelling continues to spread and becomes excessive after 48 hours, contact Dr. Banik immediately. In the days following your surgery, we also suggest:

• Brushing teeth carefully, avoiding the surgery area for at least 3-5 days.
• Rinsing with warm saltwater 3-5 times a day for 7 days after the surgery.
• Taking ALL of your prescribed medication until it is finished.
• If sutures were used, returning to our office in 5 to 7 days for removal.
• Paying attention to any dry sockets that may develop. (If they do, look to increase pain medication and, if necessary, contact our office).
• Calling 911 immediately if the patient becomes unconscious, has a serious reaction to a medication, or cannot be wakened.