Finding out you need a root canal can be stressful. However, there are steps you can take to prepare for your procedure to help it go smoothly. From getting enough rest to asking your dentist important questions, there are plenty of ways to prepare.
If you need a root canal in Greensboro, NC, follow these tips to have the best possible root canal experience.
Understand the Procedure
Dental procedures like a root canal can give patients a lot of anxiety. One of the best ways to fight this anxiety is to understand the procedure completely before your appointment. That way, you know what to expect.
In the simplest terms, a root canal is a dental procedure to remove infected tissue from the inside of a tooth. This saves the tooth, which can help you avoid needing dental implants from a Greensboro, NC dentist.
The first step in a root canal is to numb the patient’s mouth around the infected tooth. Then the dentist will remove the infected tissue, usually the tooth pulp, with files. Next, they’ll put in a filler and then cap the tooth with a crown.
Depending on your specific dental health, your dentist may put a crown on the same day as your root canal, or you may have to come back at a later point for the crown. Talk to your dentist about same-day crowns in Greensboro before your root canal so you can better plan your recovery.
Eat a Healthy Meal
Your mouth will likely be tender and sore for a day or two after your procedure. It may be difficult for you to chew on the side of your face where the affected tooth is, so you may be eating a diet of soft and liquid foods for a while.
Additionally, the numbing agent the dentist uses for the root canal might make it hard to move your mouth normally for a few hours following the procedure.
Because of these things, it’s important to eat a healthy meal before your root canal. This will keep you from being uncomfortably hungry after your procedure, and it will give your body the nutrients it needs to start your recovery. Just remember to speak with your dentist first to discuss and food restrictions prior to the procedure!
Be sure to stock up on soft, easy-to-chew foods for the week after your root canal, too. Yogurt and bananas are a good choice for healthy foods that won’t hurt your sore teeth.
Get a Good Night’s Rest
Sleep is one of the body’s best tools for recovery and healing. Getting enough rest before and after your root canal will set you up for a faster, easier recovery.
It might be hard to sleep well if you’re worried about your procedure, but talking to your dentist can help you feel more at ease about your root canal.
Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco
Using alcohol or tobacco before a root canal can actually make the procedure more painful. Tobacco can slow your circulation system, which can make your recovery longer and more difficult as well. Alcohol has a similar effect. Try to avoid using either for at least a week leading up to your root canal.
Additionally, tobacco can stain your teeth or even lead to future tooth infections. If you have tobacco staining on your teeth, there are options in Greensboro for cosmetic dentistry that could help you feel confident in your smile again.
Ask Your Dentist Questions
Every mouth is different, so make sure to talk to your dentist before your procedure so you know what to expect for your specific situation. Your dentist can give you information on the kinds of numbing agents they will use and the antibiotics and pain medication they will prescribe you.
You can also ask your dentist questions about recovery times, future crown appointments, and any other concerns you may have. Your dentist will know your specific situation best, and they can help prepare you for any side effects or complications you might experience.
Make a Post-Procedure Plan
The best way to prepare for a root canal is to make sure that everything is in place for after your procedure. Once you’re out of the dentist’s chair, you’ll want to head straight to recovery mode without needing to run errands or call for a ride.
Stock up on easy-to-chew foods, and make sure you have a plan for keeping hydrated. It’s a good idea to write down the address and phone number of your pharmacy so that your dentist can easily send them the prescription for your post-root canal anti-biotics and pain killers.
You’ll want to take it easy for a few days after your root canal, so put a plan in place to stay home from work. Have a friend or family member on standby to help you with other responsibilities and make sure you’re set up well for recovery.
Make sure you have the address and phone number for an emergency dentist in Greensboro, NC, just in case you have an unexpected complication after your procedure. An emergency dentist can tell you if the symptoms you’re having are normal or if you need to come in right away.
Ready for a Root Canal in Greensboro, NC?
Preparing for a root canal is the best way to have a stress-free procedure. Eating a healthy meal, getting enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco will help make your root canal the best it can be.
If you think you need a root canal in Greensboro, NC, you should make an appointment to see us at Carolina Smiles. Our dental team can do an assessment and schedule your procedure. Contact us for appointment availability, or fill out a new patient form on our website to get started.