INITIAL CONSULTATION: IMPORTANT! A parent or guardian must accompany all patients under the age of 18 for each visit to our office. Unless it is an emergency, most patients will need to make at least two visits to our office. The first visit will consist of an exam, consultation and X-ray. The consultation is a very important step in root canal treatment. Proper diagnosis is imperative to treating your tooth correctly. It is important that no pain medication is taken before your consultation appointment. During the exam we will perform several tests to see how your tooth responds to different stimuli. These tests help to determine the best course of treatment. During the consultation appointment, a detailed explanation will be given about what to expect at your treatment appointment. After your consultation, our front desk staff will inform you of your co-payment that will be payable when treatment is initiated. Please provide the following information at the time of your consultation: • Your referral paperwork and any X-rays, if applicable. Even though your general dentist may have taken X-rays, it will be necessary for us to take our own digital radiographs to obtain the specific angulation we need in order to make an accurate diagnosis. • A list of medications you are presently taking. • Your dental insurance card, if applicable WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT: You may experience mild to moderate discomfort for a few days and the area may be tender for about a week after treatment. Unless your health history counter-indicates the use of ibuprofen products, they can be taken for post-treatment discomfort. Each over the counter tablet is 200 mg. We recommend ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil). We recommend taking 3-4 tablets (600-800 mg) per dose every 6-8 hours as needed for pain. Don't exceed 3200 mg or 16 tablets in 24 hours. Please discuss with us alternative medications for relief of discomfort if you cannot take ibuprofen. You may also rinse the area with warm salt water. (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of hot tap water). It is important NOT to use any heat on the external face. If necessary, place ice on the outside surface of your face in the area root canal therapy was done, on and off, in 10-15 minute intervals. You should brush your teeth as normal; however, avoid chewing with the tooth under treatment for several days. You are not limited in what you can eat, just chew on the opposite side from where your treatment was done. You may be given antibiotics or prescription pain medication. Take these as directed on the bottle. If your treatment has not been completed in the first visit, it is extremely important that you have the root canal treatment finished, even if there is no pain, to prevent reinfection of your tooth. Once your treatment is completed you must return to your general dentist to have a permanent restoration placed. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns.