Post-Op Care
Most patients feel back to normal within 48 hours of a root canal. Here is what to expect, what to do, and when to call us — for routine root canal therapy, retreatment, and surgical procedures (apicoectomy).
Medically reviewed by Dr. Hope Feldman · Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics
Last reviewed May 5, 2026 · NPI 1275089088
First 24 hours
- 1Avoid eating until the numbness fully wears off (usually 2–3 hours after the visit).
- 2Once you can eat, stick to soft foods on the opposite side of your mouth — soup, eggs, yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies.
- 3Take any prescribed antibiotic exactly as directed; finish the full course even if you feel fine.
- 4For mild soreness, ibuprofen 400–600 mg every 6 hours works well for most people; alternate with acetaminophen if needed.
- 5No smoking, vaping, or nicotine for at least 72 hours (ideally 7 days) — see our smoking-after-root-canal guide.
- 6Brush and floss normally, but be gentle around the treated tooth.
First week
- 1Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the treated side until your permanent crown is placed.
- 2Schedule your final crown with your general dentist within 2–4 weeks of treatment — the temporary filling is not designed for long-term function.
- 3Mild soreness for 24–72 hours is normal. Soreness that intensifies after day 3 is not — call us.
- 4A small bump may form on the gums near the tooth in the first few days as the area drains. This usually resolves quickly.
- 5Continue regular oral hygiene; salt-water rinses (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) 2–3× daily are soothing.
Call us if
- Severe pain or pressure that does not respond to over-the-counter analgesics
- Visible swelling of the face, jaw, or gums
- Fever, chills, or a general feeling of being unwell
- A reaction to medication (rash, hives, breathing changes)
- The temporary filling falls out
- A bite that feels "high" or off after the numbness wears off
Severe swelling, fever, or trouble swallowing is a same-day emergency. Call (480) 943-1900 immediately or go to the nearest ER.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long should I expect soreness after a root canal?
- 24–72 hours of mild soreness is normal. Most patients describe it as comparable to a routine filling. Soreness that intensifies after day 3 or persists beyond a week warrants a callback.
- When should I get my permanent crown?
- Within 2–4 weeks of root canal therapy. The temporary filling protects the access opening but is not designed for long-term function. Delaying the crown beyond 4 weeks risks a fracture or new bacterial leakage that can compromise the root canal.
- Can I exercise after a root canal?
- Light activity is fine the next day. Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours, especially after surgical procedures like apicoectomy. Listen to your body — if pain or swelling intensifies during exercise, scale back.
- When can I drink alcohol after a root canal?
- Wait until any prescribed antibiotic course is complete. For comfort, give yourself at least 24 hours after the visit. Heavy alcohol use slows healing.
- What if I forget to take my antibiotic?
- If it has been less than 4 hours, take the missed dose. If it has been longer, skip it and resume at the next regular dose — do not double up. Finish the full course as prescribed.
- Why does my tooth feel different when I bite down?
- A small high spot is common after the numbness wears off. If your bite feels off after 24 hours, call us — a 5-minute adjustment usually resolves it. An uncorrected bite issue can cause prolonged soreness.
Related: Smoking after a root canal · Root canal therapy · Apicoectomy