Patient information.
Find out below how to prepare for your visit, answers to your questions and
what the usual pre/post treatment recommendations are.
Patient information
Find out below how to prepare for your visit, answers to your questions and what the usual pre/post treatment recommendations are.
Endodontic treatment – Your appointment
Dear patients,
Your appointment is coming up, and we look forward to welcoming you. To ensure we can receive you under the best possible conditions, please take note of the following information:
- Please arrive about 10 minutes before your scheduled time to allow us to create your file.
- Don’t forget your ID card! It is essential, especially for prescriptions and electronic certificates.
- Your dentist may have given you a referral slip, a letter, or a prescription with additional information — please bring it with you. If you didn’t receive anything, don’t worry! Your dentist most likely sent the necessary information to us by email.
- Medical Questionnaire (Anamnesis): This is the most important part of your medical file. That’s why we ask you to fill it out before your visit to ensure nothing is overlooked. To do so, you can complete the form:
At the end of your treatment, you’ll be invited to return to the reception desk, where we will prepare the certificate corresponding to the care you received. If you have a supplementary insurance (DKV, Dentalia, etc.), feel free to let us know so we can prepare the necessary documentation for reimbursement. If you forgot to mention it on the day of your appointment, you can still request it by email at info@endodontielouise.be.
Whenever possible, we kindly ask that you pay by Bancontact card (please note that Visa and Mastercard are not accepted).
You’ve just received endodontic treatment. Here are a few recommendations for the days ahead.
It’s important to wait until the effects of the anesthesia have fully worn off before eating or drinking anything hot, in order to avoid biting or burning your lip.
The treated tooth may be sensitive for a few days, especially when chewing or under pressure. Don’t worry — this is a normal reaction. To ease the discomfort, you may take a pain reliever such as paracetamol:
-
Dafalgan: up to 3 x 1g per day (if experiencing pain)
Initially, it’s best to avoid taking anti-inflammatory medication.
In some cases, swelling (of the gum or cheek) may occur in the days following treatment. If this happens, don’t be alarmed. This is called a flare-up, a temporary increase in inflammation. It’s important to contact us to determine whether antibiotics are needed.
These tips are not a diagnosis and do not replace the advice of your dentist. Self-medicating can be dangerous.
Our receptionists are available at +32 2 354 44 69 or via info@endodontielouise.be
You’ve just undergone endodontic surgery. Here are a few important guidelines to follow over the next few days to ensure proper healing:
Wait until the anesthesia has fully worn off before eating, to avoid accidentally biting your lip.
A detailed prescription (including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and painkillers) has been provided. It is essential to follow it exactly as prescribed.
To reduce swelling and promote healing, apply a cold compress to the area for the first 15 minutes. It is strongly recommended to eat and drink cold for 48 hours. (Swelling usually peaks 3 to 4 days after surgery.)
Brushing the teeth on the non-operated side remains crucial (use your regular toothbrush). On the operated area, wait 48 hours before brushing. After that, use a very soft-bristled toothbrush (surgical type) and combine it with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Sutures will be removed within one to two weeks.
Smoking and sports are prohibited until the stitches are removed, as both significantly impair healing.
A follow-up appointment at 6 months and 1 year will be scheduled to monitor your progress. It is essential that you attend these check-ups.
If you experience pain or swelling before your follow-up visits, don’t hesitate to contact us.
For any questions or further information, feel free to call us at +32 2 354 44 69 or via info@endodontielouise.be.
Your frequently asked questions
After completing a dental degree, an endodontist undergoes an additional two to three years of intensive specialized training to master all aspects of endodontic treatment.
At Endodontie Louise, we place great importance on the qualifications of our endodontists. Each of our practitioners has completed at least two years of recognized university-level postgraduate training.
We use our knowledge and experience to handle a wide range of challenging situations such as persistent infections, calcified canals, or complex root anatomy.
In many cases, the alternative to such treatment would be tooth extraction, followed by the placement of a bridge or an implant.
A consultation with an endodontist is often the last and best chance to save your natural tooth.
No. While most of our patients are referred to us, you are also welcome to book a consultation without a referral if you feel you need an endodontic opinion or treatment.
We’ll be happy to meet with you, assess your situation, and determine your specific endodontic needs.
Our receptionists can be reached at +32 2 354 44 69 or via info@endodontielouise.be
While antibiotics may help control and reduce symptoms in the surrounding bone before or after root canal treatment, they cannot disinfect the inside of the tooth.
A root canal or retreatment by a specialist at the Endodontie Louise clinic is necessary to thoroughly clean and disinfect the interior of the tooth.
However, if decay returns, if a nerve canal was missed, or if part of the root wasn’t properly disinfected, bacteria left behind can cause pain again, sometimes months or even years after the initial treatment.
In such cases, the root canal must be retreated to fully eliminate the source of the infection.
Contrary to common myths, modern endodontics is very similar to getting a regular dental filling. In most cases, the treatment is completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case.
Endodontic treatment is performed in a comfortable and controlled environment.
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort for a short period, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and/or anti-inflammatory medication.
Scientific studies show that the success rates of endodontic treatments have significantly improved in recent years:
-
Initial root canal treatments have success rates of 92–98%
-
Retreatments range between 75–95%
-
Endodontic surgery (such as apical surgery) has success rates exceeding 90%
However, several factors can influence the outcome of the treatment, such as:
-
Your general health
-
The bone support around the tooth
-
The structural integrity of the tooth (including possible fractures)
-
The shape and condition of the root and canal
-
Ongoing follow-up care with your general dentist
We will discuss the specific chances of success for your case during your appointment.
While no root canal treatment can be guaranteed to last forever, you can rest assured that we use the most advanced techniques and treatment protocols to ensure the best possible prognosis for your tooth.
During the procedure, we use a rubber dam (dental dam) and a sterile working field to protect both the tooth and the patient.
The patient’s eyes are also protected from light and any possible splashes using tinted safety glasses.
Every precaution is taken to ensure your treatment is performed under the safest and most hygienic conditions possible.
After extraction, a prosthetic replacement may be considered to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
Possible replacement options include:
- Dental implant
- Dental bridge
- Removable denture
These are all prosthetic solutions. However, nothing compares to your natural tooth.
In most cases, root canal treatment followed by the restoration of your natural tooth with a crown, overlay, or permanent filling is less expensive than the alternatives like implants or bridges that follow an extraction.
It varies based on the complexity of the case and the type of tooth involved.
Molars typically have 3 to 4 canals, making them more complex and therefore more expensive to treat than incisors or premolars, which usually have 1 to 2 canals.
The type of procedure also influences the price. For example, a retreatment or apical surgery is often more complex—and thus more costly—than an initial root canal treatment.
They typically do not require a prior estimate, but each provider has its own reimbursement rates. It’s a good idea to compare them to choose the one best suited to your personal and dental care needs.
Special case: Retreatment of root canals
If the dental pulp becomes inflamed or necrotic — due to trauma or decay, for example — the dentist may need to remove the pulp and seal the root canal(s).
Different nomenclature codes apply depending on the number of canals per tooth. Sometimes, a retreatment is required if the original treatment fails.
Since February 1st, 2018, Belgian health insurance reimburses one root canal retreatment per tooth, using specific INAMI codes.
Choosing a mutual insurance that matches your profile and needs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket dental expenses.
You will need to see your general dentist as soon as possible — ideally within 2 to 6 weeks — for the final restoration. This step is essential to prevent canal reinfection. In any case, the tooth must be permanently restored no later than 3 months after treatment.
Endodontic treatment remains effective as long as no bacterial contamination occurs.
Your general dentist will discuss the best permanent restoration options with you (such as a crown, onlay, or permanent filling).
It’s also important to plan for one to two check-ups per year, even on a devitalized tooth.
Keep in mind: a devitalized tooth can still develop decay, and since the nerve has been removed, you’ll no longer feel early warning signs like sensitivity to cold or sugar — which makes regular monitoring all the more important.
Removing the pulp tissue from a canal can cause inflammation in the bone socket that holds the tooth in place. Unlike the skin, which can stretch, an increase in fluid within the bone creates pressure on nearby structures, such as the sinus membranes or major nerves of the jaw. This inflammation usually takes 7 to 10 days to subside — similar to how long it takes to recover from a cold.
Generally, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment becomes asymptomatic within 3 to 10 days. However, some teeth may remain sensitive for up to 6 months. On certain days, you may feel a mild “working” sensation in the area — this is part of the natural healing process. If it becomes uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to take an anti-inflammatory.
Please contact us after your treatment if you notice any of the following:
- Swelling appears
- A white spot forms on the gum
- The tooth becomes mobile
These reactions can be normal in the first few days after treatment, but they are not normal beyond 6 months. In any case, if you’re unsure, feel free to reach out
What medications are prescribed for pain after a root canal?
To relieve discomfort after endodontic treatment, you may take analgesics such as paracetamol:
- Paracetamol (Dafalgan) 500 mg or 1 g: Do not exceed 3 g per 24 hours.
In some cases, swelling of the gum or cheek may occur in the days following treatment. If this happens, don’t worry — this is known as a flare-up, a temporary increase in inflammation. It’s important to contact us to determine whether antibiotics are necessary.
The prescribed medications will help reduce both pain and inflammation associated with your condition and the treatment you received.
⚠️ These tips are not a diagnosis and do not replace your dentist’s advice. Self-medication can be dangerous.
If your endodontist diagnoses a vertical fracture or crack in the root of the tooth, unfortunately, the only possible treatment is extraction.
This is because the fracture allows bacteria to continually reinfect the tooth — it is impossible to seal it completely. The sooner the fracture is identified, the better, in order to avoid unnecessary treatment of a tooth that will never heal.
Fractured teeth can be difficult to diagnose because their symptoms often resemble those of an infected tooth or a toothache — and sometimes there are no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis is often based on:
- The patient’s description of symptoms
- The tooth’s history
- A thorough clinical examination
During the clinical exam, your endodontist will look for localized vertical bone loss, often detected by inserting a probe around the tooth. However, this sign does not always appear.
At Endodontie Louise, we treat all teeth under a dental operating microscope, which allows us to detect fractures that might not be visible otherwise. Even so, some cracks remain invisible, even under magnification.
In such cases, we may observe secondary signs of the fracture using Cone Beam imaging (CBCT) — a 3D imaging technique specifically designed for exploring the dental and maxillofacial structures.
We are equipped with the latest CBCT technology from MORITA, which allows us to detect certain pathologies earlier and with greater precision.
If you suspect a fractured tooth or are experiencing unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We’ll be happy to assess your situation and determine if a vertical fracture is present.
External resorption is a condition where gum tissue begins to invade the structure of the tooth, usually entering at the junction between enamel and dentin — a particularly fragile area.
While the exact causes are still unclear, several factors are known to increase the risk of developing external resorption:
- Dental trauma
- Teeth whitening procedures
- Orthodontic treatments
This condition most commonly affects front teeth (anterior teeth).
How does it present?
- External resorption typically spares the pulp space, meaning the tooth remains alive, though it can become very sensitive to cold.
- A tooth affected by external resorption may sometimes develop a pinkish discoloration, referred to as a “Pink Spot”.
Diagnosis with CBCT imaging
Only a high-precision 3D radiographic exam, such as CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography), can accurately reveal the extent of the resorption and help determine the treatment approach.
CBCT is a 3D medical imaging technique that uses a conical X-ray beam, perfectly suited for exploring the dento-maxillofacial system.
At Endodontie Louise, we are equipped with one of the latest-generation CBCT systems by MORITA, allowing us to detect such conditions early and accurately.
If you notice increased tooth sensitivity or changes in color, don’t hesitate to contact us for an evaluation: +32 2 354 44 69 or via info@endodontielouise.be
- The stage of progression
- The rate of evolution
- The location of the resorption
There is currently no universally recognized scientific protocol, meaning different approaches may be considered depending on the situation.
Accurate diagnosis first
Only a high-precision 3D CBCT scan can accurately determine the extent of the resorption and guide the best treatment plan.
Possible treatments
- Mechanical removal of the resorptive tissue followed by reconstruction of the tooth with resin (composite material).
In many cases, root canal treatment (devitalization) will be necessary afterward. - In some situations, a surgical approach may be required to eliminate the affected tissues and rebuild the tooth, depending on where the resorption is located.
A regular annual radiographic follow-up is recommended to monitor the tooth’s stability.
Important to know
The prognosis is often uncertain with external resorption, even with appropriate treatment.
If you suspect external resorption or have been advised to get it checked, feel free to contact our team at Endodontie Louise. We’ll be happy to assess your case and discuss the best options for your tooth: +32 2 354 44 69 or via info@endodontielouise.be
This complication can happen even in skilled hands — endodontics is a highly complex discipline, and root anatomy can be extremely difficult to interpret. It’s important not to blame your general dentist if this occurs.
What to do if you have a false canal?
If you have a suspected or confirmed false canal, it is essential to consult an endodontist as soon as possible.
At Endodontie Louise, we can:
- Seal the false canal using a biocompatible material
- Complete the root canal treatment under optimal conditions
- Monitor the healing over time with regular X-rays
If the false canal is treated promptly and is of moderate size (up to 3 mm in diameter), the prognosis is generally good.
Regular follow-up is key
An annual radiographic check-up is recommended to ensure the tooth remains stable and free of complications.
If your tooth has a false canal, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to schedule a consultation and determine the best course of treatment :
What happens during a hypochlorite accident?
Although sodium hypochlorite is excellent for cleaning inside the tooth, it is aggressive toward living tissues.
If it leaks outside the root canal:
- A sudden, severe, and painful inflammatory reaction may occur
- The corresponding area of the face may swell almost instantly
- If an upper tooth is involved, you might temporarily be unable to open your eye due to the swelling
How is it managed?
If this happens, the dentist will:
- Immediately flush the area with sterile saline solution to remove as much of the product as possible
- Prescribe antibiotics and corticosteroids to prevent soft tissue and bone infection and reduce inflammation
Recovery usually takes about one week, although a bruise or hematoma may also appear and fade more gradually.
Good to know
Despite the dramatic nature of the incident, a sodium hypochlorite accident does not affect the long-term prognosis of the root canal treatment. With proper care and monitoring, the tissues typically heal without lasting consequences.
If you ever have questions about this or experience unusual swelling or pain after treatment, feel free to contact us.
It is caused by the release of toxins from bacteria that were disturbed — but not completely eliminated — during the cleaning of the root canals. This inflammation can be painful, but it is a known and temporary reaction.
How long does it last?
A flare-up usually lasts around 7 days.
💊 What should you do?
It’s important to contact us promptly so we can determine if antibiotics or additional care are needed.
⚠️ Self-medication is dangerous. Always seek professional advice before taking any medication: +32 2 354 44 69 or via info@endodontielouise.be
During a root canal treatment, the goal is to clean out the nerve space using specialized tools called endodontic files.
However, these files sometimes face extremely narrow or curved canals, with sharp bends or limited access. In such complex anatomy, it can happen that the tip of a file breaks off inside the tooth.
What happens next?
If this occurs, it’s important to consult an endodontist — such as the specialists at Endodontie Louise — to evaluate the situation and determine the best course of action.
If the tooth is not infected:
- The remaining canals can be treated.
- The fractured instrument may be left in place safely, as long as it doesn’t block necessary cleaning.
If the instrument is easily accessible:
- The endodontist may attempt to remove it under a microscope.
If the tooth is infected:
- Ideally, the entire canal system should be disinfected.
- The instrument should be removed — but that’s not always possible, especially if it’s deep and not visible under the microscope.
- In this case, the endodontist may attempt to bypass the instrument (work around it).
Monitoring with 3D imaging
Regular radiographic follow-ups are crucial.
We may also use Cone Beam (CBCT) imaging — a 3D X-ray technology — to better assess the position of the fragment and the condition of the surrounding bone.
At Endodontie Louise, we are equipped with state-of-the-art CBCT technology by MORITA, allowing us to detect and monitor such issues with great precision.
If symptoms or infection persist
A surgical endodontic procedure may be necessary. This involves removing the infected tip of the root (apicoectomy), if your bone anatomy allows it.
If you’ve been told there’s a broken instrument in your tooth, don’t worry — we’re here to help.
📞 +32 2 354 44 69
📧 info@endodontielouise.be
Louise Endodontics Dental Practice
Access to the office: practical information
Rendez-vous
Téléphone : 02/354.44.69
E-mail : info@endodontielouise.be
Adresse :
Avenue Louise, 391 B10 (5ème étage)
1050 Ixelles, Bruxelles.
Transports en commun:
tram 8 et 93: arrêt “Abbaye”
Horaires
Lundi au Vendredi :
09:00 – 18:00
Samedi – Dimanche :
fermé