Root canal treatment is commonly one of the first treatment choices if a tooth is severely cracked, damaged or decayed. Decay is formed when the cavity reaches the pulp of the tooth. Although there has been the common misconception that root canal treatment can be painful, it is really a painless procedure.
The dentist will ensure that the procedure is as comfortable and smooth as possible. Typically, immediately before treatment, a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area where treatment will be completed.
Your mouth must be in a suitable state to ensure the procedure develops no abnormalities. Therefore, there are some key tips you must follow 24-48 hours prior to treatment.
The Key Tips
- Take Painkillers If Advised – Painkillers may be recommended to reduce any form of inflammation in the tooth. The night before you visit the dentist for your root canal appointment is the best time to take painkillers such as ibuprofen. You may also take some two to three hours before treatment begins.
- Avoid Consuming Alcohol – Consuming alcohol develops a dry mouth which could make the root canal procedure more complicated than it should be due to the slowness of recovery. Do not consume alcohol 24-48 hours before treatment to avoid complications.
- Feel Comfortable Before the Procedure – Feeling unsure or anxious before root canal treatment is natural if you’re not fully ready. Ask all the questions you want to know and be fully prepared within yourself. The dentist is always on hand to assist you and answer any questions you have. The dentist requires you to be calm and relaxed. Therefore, ask all the questions and take all the necessary steps to feel ready.
- Get Quality Sleep – The human body needs to be a state of recovery after root canal treatment and therefore needs adequate to function during the day. Therefore, make sure that you set a routine that allows you to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep every day for the first week. This will help shorten your recovery time after treatment.
- Eat Soft and Clear Foods Before the Procedure – After root canal treatment, the anesthetic will take time to wear off, meaning you cannot eat a meal after treatment until this has happened. It is recommended that you eat a meal before the procedure but eat soft and clear solids and liquids pre-treatment.
To find out what a typical root canal appointment involves, click here now!
Our Message To You…
Root canal treatment is a success providing the tips above are followed before and after. There are many misconceptions that are fed which makes root canal treatment sound painful and worthless than it is. If you’re unsure, consult a professional dentist who will be able to offer the truth on root canal treatment and why it is an important procedure if your tooth has severely decayed or damaged.
If you require root canal treatment, click here to contact us now to book yourself in!