There is a wide range of symptoms that patients may experience after root canal therapy.  The area around the tooth may feel sore or bruised.  This may last up to a week but should continue to improve.  Following is a list of Options for pain relief during this period.

IF YOU ARE PREGNANT, consult with your obstetrician before taking any pain medication.  DO NOT TAKE Ibuprofen if you are taking Aleve or prescription NSAIDs such as Naproxen or Celebrex.

OPTION 1:  Take Ibuprofen 600-800mg. (3 – 4 tablets/capsules) every 4 to 6 hours regularly for 2 or 3 days.

OPTION 2:  Take Ibuprofen as directed above and add Acetaminophen 325-650mg. but not exceeding 2600mg. in a 24 hour period. (new FDA dosage recommendations for Acetaminophen as of July 2009) *see below

OPTION 3:  The doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever which should be taken according to the directions given by the pharmacy filling the prescription. *see below

Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen each work on different pain receptors and can be effective when taken together.

*Regarding Options 2 & 3; staggering the doses of Ibuprofen with either Acetaminophen or a narcotic pain reliever every 2 to 3 hours has proven to be a more effective pain relief strategy instead of taking them at the same time.

Important!  Please be sure to follow pharmacist instructions regarding the use of a narcotic and restrictions for driving and operation of heavy machinery.