When you are in pain and your regular dentist can't do anything to help, it may be time to pay a visit to the endodontics specialist, such as at Dodson Endodontics, for a root canal. A root canal is a procedure where the root of the tooth is removed and replaced with a substance that will eliminate any pain or infection in the future. After the procedure, a crown is usually placed on top of the tooth. The root canal procedure is a long one, but there shouldn't be any pain, thanks to local anesthetics. There are a few things that you can do to prepare yourself for your root canal. Here are some tips to help you get ready for the procedure.
Rest
It is a good idea to get plenty of rest the night before your root canal. You will feel better if you aren't tired, and it will reduce the chance of your becoming anxious about the procedure. You will be able to think clearly and will react better to the treatment if you are well rested.
Eat Well
Sometimes a root canal can take up to 3 or 4 hours from start to finish. It is a good idea to eat a good sized and healthy meal before your procedure so that you do not become hungry part of the way through. You will also be numb afterwards, so it is best not to eat right after the procedure so that you do not accidentally bite your tongue or cheek. Try to eat around an hour before your appointment so that you will be comfortable during the procedure.
Take an Anti-Inflammatory
Before your appointment, it is a good idea to take a non-steroid anti-inflammatory over the counter pain medication. Ibuprofen and naproxen are the most common types of medications. These will help to reduce pain after the procedure and will also reduce possible swelling. These types of medications may be helpful dealing with the pain before the root canal, and will also be helpful in the days after it as well.
Talk about Antibiotics
Another thing to discuss with the dentist or endodontist before the procedure is the need for an antibiotic. The reason behind getting a root canal is because there may be infection within the root of the tooth. When this is removed, there may be the need for an antibiotic to get rid of all bacteria related to that infection. It will also help with the swelling and healing process after the procedure.
Follow Up with an Appointment
After the root canal procedure, there may be a need for more work done on that tooth. If you didn't get a crown after the root canal, there may be a need to put a crown on the tooth for protection. Sometimes a root canal can weaken the tooth and it can easily crack in the future. A crown will protect this from happening and make the tooth stronger.
Other Tips
It is a good idea to wear comfortable clothing to your root canal appointment. You will be in the chair for a longer period of time, and it is a long time to be uncomfortable. You should also refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol within 12 hours of your root canal appointment. Your endodontist or dentist may have other productive tips for the hours before and after your procedure. It is imperative that you follow their directions so that your procedure goes as smoothly as possible.
