How to Prepare for a Root Canal

If you plan on getting a root canal in Hamilton, you must prepare for it. It can be a daunting task but the benefits of root canals are immense. A root canal can reduce pain, prevent the need for extraction, and restore the general health of your teeth. It is a painless procedure but understanding what it entails could put your mind at ease. When getting a root canal treatment, your dentist will remove the infected pulp and then disinfect your teeth. Afterward, they will fill and seal it to protect your teeth from irritants. Keep the following tips in mind when preparing for a root canal.

  1.     Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco

Do not consume alcohol or tobacco for 24 hours before the procedure. Your dentist will use local anesthesia on your gums. You may have a bad reaction if you have been consuming alcohol or tobacco close to the date of the procedure.

  1.     Speak with Your Doctor

The most effective way to prepare for the procedure is by speaking with your doctor. If you have any questions about the process, what to expect, or how to prepare, your dentist is the best person to give you answers. Your dentist understands your specific needs and they are likely to deliver answers that address your specific concerns.

  1.     Get Enough Sleep

You should try to get enough sleep and rest on the night before your procedure. Most of your bodily repairs happen while you are asleep. If you do not sleep enough, your recovery process may not be smooth.

  1.     Take Pain Medication

Where appropriate, take pain medication before the procedure. Your dentist may suggest that you take ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory pain relievers. They ease the swelling and minimize discomfort.

  1.     Eat Before the Procedure

Unless your dentist instructs you otherwise, you should eat a few hours before the procedure. Since they will be injecting an anesthetic into your gums, and your mouth will stay numb for a few hours. You may have trouble eating. Having a meal before the procedure could make you more comfortable during recovery.

  1.     Avoid Antibiotics

Stop taking antibiotics a few days before a root canal. It could have severe effects upon interaction with anesthesia. If you are under medication that you cannot stop taking, let your dentist know about it ahead of time. That way, they can come up with strategies to avoid adverse reactions.

  1.     Come Up with a Pain Signal

Speak with your dentist before the start of your treatment. Since you won’t be able to speak during the procedure, you should come up with a signal to let them know when you are in pain or need them to stop. It can be a simple gesture like raising your hand. It gives you a sense of control during the procedure. 

Even though tooth canals have a bad rep, they are safe, effective, and appropriate for most people. The practice has evolved over the years and is no longer as painful and dreadful as it was in the past. Technological advances have made it faster and safer. They may be an effective way to restore the function of your teeth and avoid tooth loss.