A root canal is a type of dental procedure that involves removing the pulp of a tooth that has become impacted by infection or decay. This type of procedure is one of the most commonly performed in the United States, with millions receiving treatment each year.
Like any serious dental work, your results will turn out much stronger if you enter the dentist’s office somewhat prepared. This can greatly increase your chances of receiving a satisfying procedure.
If you think you might be due for a root canal, take a look at this guide that can help you properly prepare.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a type of dental procedure that aims to repair a tooth of serious damage. During a root canal, a dentist removes the nerve endings in the hollow of the tooth when it becomes damaged or infected.
How to Prepare for a Root Canal
There are many different steps one can take to properly prepare for a successful root canal treatment. Some of the steps below should be of some use to those who are preparing for this type of treatment.
1. Get Plenty of Sleep Before Your Treatment
Getting plenty of rest prior to your procedure is absolutely essential for feeling your best throughout your procedure. Ensuring that you get plenty of rest prior to your procedure can help ensure that you feel physically healthy throughout your operation.
2. Eat Prior to Your Treatment
You should consider having a hearty and healthy meal prior to your procedure that can give your body additional energy for enduring many of the stressors that can be applied to your system during a stressful operation like a root canal.
3. Ask Plenty of Questions
Don’t be shy about asking your dentist clarifying questions prior to your operation taking place. The more information that you can ascertain regarding your surgery, the larger chance that you have of having a successful procedure. This is additionally true if you have any special medical conditions that can make having a medical procedure more complex.
4. Quit Drinking and Smoking Before Treatment
You should take care to remain healthy prior to your procedure. One of the best steps you can take to ensure that you’re in top shape for your procedure is to quit drinking and smoking prior to your operation. This can ensure that you haven’t subjected your body to additional stressors prior to engaging in a root canal.
5. Make a Plan for Your Recovery Period
Another step that you can take prior to your procedure is to make a plan for your recovery period. This can reduce the amount of strenuous activity that you have to partake in after your procedure. This in turn can increase your chances of having a successful recovery period.
6. Consider Taking Painkillers Prior to Treatment
Many dentists will advise that a patient take some mild painkillers prior to their procedure. This has a chance of reducing the amount of pain and swelling that you experience in the aftermath of your procedure. There is a very strong chance that you may be administered some anesthesia in your mouth during the procedure as well.
7. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
You should follow your dentist’s instructions regarding your preparatory and recovery period to the letter. They will likely give you a set of instructions prior to your procedure, as well as a set of guidelines for your recovery period. Deviating from these instructions has the potential to interfere with your results.
8. Contact Your Dental Insurance Provider
You should contact your dental insurance provider prior to your procedure taking place. This can help you ensure that your procedure is covered and won’t incur additional excess costs. On top of this, it can help you find out if you have additional treatment options available.
9. Keep Track of Your Results
You should hold on to any X-rays or other documents that are offered to you during and after your procedure. These documents can be invaluable for helping you keep track of your dental health and may be referenced by you and your dentist in further operations. This should prove useful should further dental work be needed.
The Best Dentist in California
Glendora Family Dentistry is one of the most widely respected dentists in the state. If you’re looking for an emergency dentist in Glendora, contact our office to set up an appointment and start looking and feeling your very best today.
