A root canal is a very commonly performed procedure, with more than 40,000 treatments completed every day in the US. Even so, root canal therapy still has a negative reputation for being painful and complicated. However, root canals are performed using local anesthetic, and most patients do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. To ensure your procedure goes smoothly, too, please read our tips on how to prepare for a root canal.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
The main goal of root canal treatment is to remove the infection from the inner chambers of the tooth, thus saving the tooth from extraction. Root canal can be performed by an endodontist or by a general dentist and is typically used in cases of severe tooth decay. Generally, the procedure of root canal includes the following:
- Removing the infected pulp and bacteria from the chambers of the tooth and cleaning the canals
- Filling the canals with a special material and medication if necessary and sealing the canals
- Covering the tooth with a dental crown if its significant part is decayed and requires reinforcement
How to Prepare for Root Canal
Typically, root canal procedures do not require extensive preparation on a patient’s part. However, below, we discuss several steps you can take to ensure the procedure goes well and the recovery is as fast and smooth as possible.
Consider Sedation Dentistry if You Have Severe Dental Anxiety
Sedation dentistry can offer several options, such as oral sedation or sedation with nitrous oxide. If you think that dental anxiety might complicate the procedure of the root canal or strain you more than necessary, one of these options might be suitable for you. Ask your dentist about sedation dentistry in advance before the root canal procedure, as you might need to do some tests or other preparations for sedation.
Do Not Skip Your Meal Before the Procedure
A local anesthetic will numb your mouth to block pain during the root canal treatment. You will not be able to eat for a couple of hours after the procedure to avoid biting yourself and damaging the newly treated tooth. To better prepare for the procedure and recovery time after it, we recommend eating a good meal that will keep you full for several hours.
Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol significantly slow down healing after the treatment and can interfere with anesthetic during the procedure. Also, these substances increase inflammation and irritation in the mouth before and after the procedure. We recommend abstaining from tobacco and alcohol for two days before the procedure and for the duration of the recovery (one to two weeks).
Take Pain Medications or Antibiotics as Instructed
Your dentist might recommend that you take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medication before the procedure to reduce swelling, pain, and infection. Always follow the instructions and your doctor’s recommendations, and do not exceed the daily dose of your medication.
Get a Good and Restful Sleep
Most of our bodies’ healing processes happen while we sleep. So, to speed up recovery, make sure to arrange a good night’s rest before and after the root canal.
Ask Questions in Advance
If you feel you need more information to fully understand the treatment, preparation, or recovery, feel free to contact your dentist’s office and ask questions. Once the questions are answered, you will feel much more confident and calm about the upcoming procedure.
Recovery After Root Canal
In most cases, patients fully recover within one to two weeks after the root canal treatment. Do not worry if you experience some swelling, discomfort, or pain for a couple of days after the procedure—these symptoms are typical. They will go away completely once the tooth and the tissue around it are fully recovered.
To ensure the recovery process is fast and smooth, follow the recommendations of your doctor and take the prescribed medication. If the post-procedure pain is severe and lasts for more than a week, see your dentist as soon as possible.
Make an Appointment Today
If you have symptoms that you need root canal treatment, sign up for a consultation and a comprehensive exam with a dentist in Yucaipa today. Please do not postpone the treatment, as it can lead to tooth loss and other complications. Our specialists are looking forward to welcoming you and your family to our dental office and restoring your dental health.