A Guide on Your First Root Canal Procedure: How to Prepare

root canal procedure

Many people are apprehensive about root canal procedures because they don’t know what to expect. After all, there are so many scary stories about it and icky depictions of the process in movies. Our practice is here to allay any fears or concerns you may have.

As always, knowing what you are about to go through and having enough time to prepare emotionally, physically, and mentally is the key to a successful and painless operation.

How to Prepare for a Root Canal: Necessary Things to Do

1. Get Answers to Your Questions

A good dentist will explain in detail what will happen during your procedure. Be sure to have any questions answered before the appointment comes.

Tell the dentist about your fears and concerns. If you are having anxiety about the procedure, they can help you through it. Ensure that you know exactly what the root canal procedure entails and what steps will be involved. 

2. Don’t Smoke

Make sure not to smoke before your root canal appointment. Smoking slows the blood flow and stifles the blood supply in your mouth. Stuck in a tight mouth canal, your blood could coagulate and become rancid.

3. Don’t Drink Alcohol 

Avoid drinking alcohol, even the night before. Alcohol can loosen your muscles and cause you to feel more pain.

4. Drink Pain Reliever If Your Dentist Would Recommend

If your dentist recommends taking pain relievers, follow their instructions. The pain reliever can help diminish the feeling of stress and anxiety.

5. Avoid Sugar

The night before the procedure, avoid eating anything that might give you diarrhea. Since plenty of liquid will be in your mouth, you could throw up during the process.

You might also experience some bleeding. That means that you will have to rinse your mouth and go back to the waiting room. It would be best if you tried to avoid this by consuming only food that is easy to digest.

12. Stock Up on the Right Food

Stock up on the right food the night before your appointment. Avoid greasy, fried foods, and eat the recommended amount of fruits, vegetables, and water.

6. Get Some Good Rest

Before your appointment, make sure that you get a good night’s sleep. The better rested you are, the better you will feel physically and mentally.

Also, try to avoid overeating before your appointment. It will make it easier for you to sleep.

7. Eat a Good Breakfast

Eat a filling, nutritious breakfast before you head to the clinic. A healthy breakfast will help keep your energy up and your emotions in check.

8. Bring a Bag

Make sure to bring a bag with you. It should contain your medicines, pain relievers, and any other essentials that you need.

9. Wear Loose Clothing

It’s best to wear comfortable clothing. Your comfort is paramount, and the best way to feel comfortable is to wear loose clothing.

10. Arrange a Ride Home

Call a taxi or have someone pick you up after your appointment. It’s best to avoid driving home after a root canal.

11. Bring a Friend

Ask a friend or family member if they would like to be with you during the appointment. You can take turns talking through the process.

Some people are also more at ease with someone else there. You can talk to them about your feelings or let them know when you’re ready to leave.

Conclusion

The root canal procedure is an effective way to solve numerous dental problems. It is generally easier to perform than a regular dental filling. There is no need for you to feel frightened about the experience. A good dentist will take care of you and ensure the procedure goes smoothly.

Sudbury Dental Arts provides general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry services from our highly trained dental professionals to our patients. If you are looking for a dentist in Sudbury, MA, for your root canal procedure, we can take care of you. Book an appointment today.

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