Patient Information

PATIENT PORTAL

Financial Information

At Apex Endodontic Specialists, we are committed to providing the highest quality endodontic
care at a fair and transparent cost. Prior to beginning treatment, our team will review your case, discuss available treatment options, and provide a clear estimate of the associated costs.

To help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, we kindly ask that you review the following
financial information:

Payment Policy

Payment is due at the time of service. We accept the following forms of payment:

  • Cash
  • Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express)
  • We Offer Cherry Financing

Dental Insurance Information

We are in-network with many major dental insurance providers, including:

  • United Concordia
  • MetLife
  • UPMC Dental Advantage
  • UPMC Medicare
  • Guardian
  • Cigna PPO
  • Delta Dental

Please note: Not all plans from these carriers may be considered “in-network.”

If your plan is out-of-network, you will be responsible for out-of-pocket payment at the time of treatment. However, we’re happy to help you file a claim with your insurance company so you can receive reimbursement directly.

Reminder: Your actual financial responsibility may vary depending on the final determination made by your insurance provider.

Root Canal Post-Operative Instructions

  • DISCOMFORT
  • It’s completely normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort following a root canal procedure.
  • Peak discomfort usually occurs within 24-72 hours after the treatment.
    In some cases, patients may have prolonged discomfort for up to a week.
  • To manage discomfort, you may take: Ibuprofen (Advil) 600mg and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500mg every 6–8 hours (unless otherwise directed by your doctor)
  • TEMPORARY FILLING
  • A temporary material was placed in your tooth.
  • It may feel different from your natural tooth and might wear down slightly, which is normal.
  • If it falls out entirely, contact the office.
  • SWELLING
  • Sometimes, mild swelling can occur after a root canal procedure
  • To manage mild swelling, use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours if needed.
  • FINAL RESTORATION
  • It’s crucial to return to your general dentist for the final crown or permanent filling.
  • Failure to do so may result in fracture or reinfection.

When To Call Us

  • CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU EXPERIENCE THIS:
  • Severe pain not manageable by ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Moderate to severe swelling
  • An allergic reaction (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)
  • Your temporary filling has completely come out
  • A visible crack or break in the tooth

Surgery Post-Operative Instructions

  • DISCOMFORT
  • It’s completely normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort following endodontic surgery.
  • Peak discomfort usually occurs within 24-72 hours after the treatment.
    In some cases, patients may have prolonged discomfort for up to a week.
  • To manage discomfort, you may take: Ibuprofen (Advil) 600mg and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500mg every 6–8 hours (unless otherwise directed by your doctor)
  • SWELLING & BRUISING
  • Swelling is common and may peak at 48–72 hours.
  • Apply an ice pack (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to the surgical area for the first 24-48 hours.
  • After 72 hours, you may use warm compresses to promote circulation and reduce swelling.
  • Try to sleep with your head slightly elevated to help minimize swelling and bruising.
  • ORAL HYGIENE
  • You may brush your teeth but avoid brushing or flossing the gum tissue in the surgical site for the first few days.
  • Avoid alcohol-containing mouth rinses.
  • You may gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz water)
  • BLEEDING
  • Slight bleeding or oozing is typical for the first 24 hours.
  • If bleeding persists apply gentle pressure with gauze or a dampened tea bag to the surgical site for 10-15mins
  • Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours.
  • DIET
  • Eat soft foods for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.
  • Avoid using straws.
  • ACTIVITY
  • Rest and avoid vigorous physical activity for the first 48 hours.
  • Keep your head elevated while resting to reduce swelling.

Suture (Stitches) Care

  • To promote proper healing and avoid complications, please follow these guidelines:
  • Do not touch or play with the stitches. This can disrupt healing and increase the risk of infection.
  • Do not apply anything to the stitches (e.g. Orajel or other topical home remedies.)
  • Do not attempt to remove the stitches yourself. Premature removal can interfere with healing.
  • Dissolvable and non-dissolvable stitches may be used.
    You will need to return to the office within 3 to 7 days for a post-operative evaluation and suture removal.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office.

When To Call Us

  • CONTACT OUR OFFICE IF YOU EXPERIENCE THIS:
  • Severe pain not manageable by ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Moderate to severe swelling
  • Excessive bleeding