I have been informed that there are certain inherent and potential risks associated with root canal treatment. I understand that during and after treatment I may experience pain or discomfort, swelling, bleeding, changes in my bite, loosening and loss of dental restorations. I understand that it is possible for an infection to occur, or an existing infection to worsen in the tooth being treated or in the area around the tooth, and that I may need antibiotics and or other procedures to treat the infection. I understand that sometimes root canal instruments separate (break) inside the canal. If the separated fragment cannot be retrieved, it may need to be sealed inside the root canal. It may also be necessary to have additional procedures performed on root to address the problem. To prevent this, instruments are used only once, which is an added expense per tooth. I understand that other risks include: perforation of the tooth, or tooth root by an instrument, injury to soft tissues adjacent to the tooth, sinus perforation, and nerve disturbances such as temporary or permanent numbness, itching, burning, or tingling of the lip, tongue, chin, teeth or mouth tissues. I understand that many factors contribute to the success of root canal treatment and not all factors can be predicted in advance. I understand that my case may be more difficult if my tooth has blocked, curved or very narrow canals. I understand that RCT may not relieve my symptoms, that treatment can fail during and after the completion of treatment and that it may fail for unexplainable reasons. If treatment and/or other procedures fail (including root canal retreatment) it may be necessary to retain the tooth or it may require extraction. I understand that when root canal therapy is concluded, I must promptly return to begin the next step in treatment. If I fail to return to have the tooth restored, I risk a failure of the RCT, decay, infection, and tooth fracture, even loss of the tooth.
I understand that I will be given a local anesthetic injection and in rare instances patients could experience temporary or permanent injury to nerves and or blood vessels from injection. I understand that injection areas may be uncomfortable following treatment and that my jaw may be stiff and sore from holding my mouth open during treatment.