7 Tips to Prepare for Your Root Canal Treatment
A root canal treatment is typically the first option when it comes to dealing with severe cases of tooth decay where the cavity has reached the pulp of the tooth. It has a bad reputation as a painful dental procedure, but it is actually a relatively painless experience.
The closest thing to pain that patient's feel during this procedure is the shot of anesthetic that he or she receives at the beginning. Besides that, all that the patient will feel during a root canal treatment is vibrations and pressure from the dentist working on the tooth.
The procedure itself is rather straightforward. After getting a shot of anesthetic, the dentist drills a hole in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Removing the pulp and nerves inside the tooth with a series of files is the next step. Once that is complete, the hole is sealed, the dentist adds a crown to protect the tooth from further decay. These seven tips will help ensure your root canal procedure goes smoothly.
1. Talk to the dentist about antibiotics
An infection often makes any dental procedure more painful than it needs to be. If an infected tooth develops, talk to the dentist about antibiotics. These work to clear the infection. That, in turn, keeps the pain that occurs during the procedure at a minimum and shortens the recovery time.
2. Take painkillers before the procedure
The dentist may advise taking over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen to help reduce any inflammation near the tooth. Take this a couple of hours before going to the dentist's office.
3. Do not consume alcohol
It is best to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before this treatment. The alcohol can dry out the mouth and make the procedure more complicated than it needs to be. Drinking alcohol also increases the amount of time it takes to recover, so try to avoid it after the procedure as well.
4. Avoid smoking
Smoking increases the time it takes for a person to heal, so try to avoid smoking before and after the procedure. If it is necessary to have a smoke, protect the newly repaired tooth with a wet ball of cotton.
5. Eat a few hours before the procedure
A root canal often requires the use of an anesthetic that numbs a mouth, so eating a few hours after the procedure is unlikely. Eat a couple of hours before the procedure. That gives the body all the nutrients it needs to start the recovery process.
6. Ask questions
There is no such thing as asking too many questions when at the dentist's office. Make sure to understand what the procedure entails and the types of food to eat after the treatment.
7. Get a good night's rest before and after
Make sure to get enough sleep before and after getting a root canal. The human body does most of its repairs while the person is asleep. That is the most effective way to shorten recovery time.
For those who want to learn more about root canals and the other options for severe cases of tooth decay, contact your dentist today.
Request an appointment in our East Orange dentist office here: https://www.qualitygentledentalcare.com.