At your initial visit, our doctors will perform a thorough examination and will discuss the diagnosis and treatment options for your current dental condition. If you require endodontic therapy, it can usually be completed during the same appointment as the examination. However, certain complex cases may require multiple appointments to ensure adequate disinfection of the root canal system.

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your appointment:

• Your referral slip and any applicable x-rays
• A list of medications you are presently taking
• If you have dental insurance, bring your insurance card to allow us to help you process your claim. Additionally, please review our financial policy on this website.
• To save you time, please complete the Patient Registration form on this website and submit it online (see "Patient Login" tab). 

• If you have been advised by your physician or dentist to use antibiotic premedication because of a heart condition, prosthetic joint, or any other health condition, 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.
• Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to your appointment (i.e. latex or drug allergy, anxiety disorder, etc.)
• To aid in proper diagnosis, please avoid taking any type of pain medication at least 4 hours prior to your appointment.
• 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 regular breakfast or lunch prior to your appointment.
• This procedure will be performed using local anesthesia. There are usually no restrictions after the procedure concerning driving or returning to work.

• If a temporary filling was placed, you are advised to avoid chewing for at least 15 minutes until the filling or cement has fully hardened. Once the filling has hardened only gentle chewing is recommended on the treated tooth until you return to your general dentist for the permanent restoration.
• Due to the local anesthesia, you should refrain from chewing until the feeling returns to your lips and tongue to avoid injury. Drinking fluids as long as they are not very hot is allowed.
• Your tooth and gum tissue may often be tender to chewing for 1-2 weeks following treatment due to inflammation in the socket area. This tenderness is normal and is no cause for alarm.
• Any discomfort should be alleviated by taking ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), 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 contact our Traverse City office at (231) 947-6000 or our Cadillac office at (231) 468-3200.

IMPORTANT: Once endodontic treatment has been completed, the root canal system has been permanently sealed. However, the outer surface may be sealed with a temporary restoration. An additional visit to your general dentist for permanent restoration of your tooth is necessary.  This permanent restoration must be placed to protect your tooth against fracture and decay. Please contact your general dentist for an appointment. A complete report of your treatment and digital x-rays will be provided to your general dentist.