

Temporary Toothache Remedies
For immediate toothache relief:
- Over-the-counter Motrin, Advil or Tylenol – 2 tablets every 4-6 hours
- Oragel – apply to top of tooth
- Don’t chew on that side of your mouth
- Avoid Cold and Hot beverages
If the gum is swelling:
- Combine 1 teaspoon salt with 1 cup hot water
- Swish it around in your mouth for 5 minutes
Read more about Toothaches and their symptoms, treatment and diagnosis.
Contact Dr Liwen Tao to schedule an appointment for a permanent toothache remedy.
Before Endodontic Treatment
Endodontic procedures will be performed using local anesthesia. There are usually no restrictions after the procedure concerning driving or returning to work.
Continue all medications for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems and any other conditions as recommended by your physician. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
Please eat a full breakfast or lunch as applicable.
If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic premedication because of mitral valve prolapse (MVP), heart murmur, hip, knee, cardiac or other prosthesis, or if you have rheumatic heart disease, please make sure you are on the appropriate antibiotic on the day of your appointment. If there is a question, please call our office prior to your appointment.
General Instructions After the Procedure
Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be slightly tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment and previous condition of your tooth. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm. Do not chew food on the affected side until your endodontic therapy is completed and your tooth is covered with a protective restoration provided by your restorative dentist. We can help you make the appointment with your dentist for the final restoration.
You may continue your regular dental hygiene regimen.
Discomfort may be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed. NOTE: Alcohol intake is not advised while taking any of these medications. Should you experience discomfort that cannot be controlled with the above listed medications, or should swelling develop, please add the prescription medication. Please contact this office when needed. If you need to call after hours, please have your pharmacy number available.
After Completion of Endodontic Treatment
Endodontic treatment has now been completed. The root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface is sealed with a temporary restoration. A follow-up restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay. Please telephone your general dentist within a few weeks of the completion of root canal therapy for an appointment. A complete report of treatment will be sent to your general dentist.



Testimonial from Dr. Janice B
Liwen Tao did a root canal for me several years ago, and it was a very pleasant experience. Like most dentists, I had diagnosed my own problem — my first molar needed a root canal. Dr Tao did a thorough exam, then very politely told me it was my second molar that needed treatment. I told her I was certain it was my first molar. She said “trust me” and did a root canal on my second molar. Both teeth have been just fine since! I’ve told that story to many of my patients, and we just chuckle about it.
Dr Liwen Tao is always my first choice for a root canal specialist for my patients. She is very pleasant and kind, and does beautiful work. Her staff is very easy to work with and my patients are seen in a very timely manner.
I feel that we are very fortunate to have an endodontist of Liwen Tao’s caliber in our community. I recommend her highly.
Janice B., DDS
Testimonial from Mary B.I have a very small mouth but needed a molar root canal. No other dentists wanted to work on me. Dr Tao did my root canal with her small hands and gentle touch.
Mary B.
Testimonial from Dr. Linda JI often tell my patients my story of root canal therapy. Dr Tao did a root canal on me several years ago. She did the work painlessly and I felt so good afterward that I shopped for 3 hours at a Talbot’s sale! Anyone who’s been to those sales knows you have to be in good shape to weather a sale!
My tooth’s been great ever since. Dr Tao’s kindness and expertise make her terrific. I send all my root canal patients to her without hesitation. She’s great!
Linda J., DDS


