How do you Prepare for a Root Canal?

You may have a root canal treatment around the corner, so you may be wondering how do you best prepare for it. A root canal is performed to treat a severely infected tooth or a dying nerve and alleviate pain arising from the damage. While there are those who are hardly affected by it, others usually cringe at the name of the treatment. Images of a painful session at the dentist’s and days of recovery typically come to their mind. If you are one of those, who are scheduled for a root canal but shudder at the thought of it – relax. There are several myths surrounding root canal. But, if you know what to do before a root canal the treatment can be less painful. Here are a few ways to prepare before a root canal.

Talk to the Dentist about Antibiotics

A root canal is usually recommended for severely infected tooth or tooth roots. Such infections can cause discomfort and pain during the treatment. Consulting your dentist about antibiotics will help you deal with the issue. Antibiotics help in getting rid of the infection causing bacteria. This makes the treatment less painful and also shortens your recovery. However, many people are allergic to certain antibiotics, hence, it is best to ask the dentist before taking any.

Take Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs before the Procedure

Many dentists recommend anti-inflammatory medicines like Ibuprofen to reduce the pain and swelling caused due to infection. You can get it over-the-counter and take it on the day of the root canal, prior to the treatment. However, if you are allergic to any such medications it is best to let your dentist know. It is also recommended to avoid aspirin 10 days before the treatment and let your dentist know about any other medications you are currently on.

Eat a Healthy Meal

It is important to have a healthy meal prior to your treatment. The procedure involves injecting local anesthesia to numb the damaged area. Furthermore, the procedure may take more than an hour depending on the severity of the damage. Hence, you may not be able to eat for several hours, which is why you must have a healthy meal before the treatment. Avoid unhealthy foods and drinks that can add to the infection. Eating soft foods and avoiding chewing from the damaged area will be helpful.

Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco intake before the root canal procedure can be damaging. It is recommended you avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours before the procedure. Tobacco intake should also be avoided for the next 72 hours after the root canal treatment. Intake of alcohol and tobacco not only adds to the infection but can also create more complication and slow the healing time.

Knowing what to do before a root canal will make it comfortable and painless for you. While implementing these tips will help, speaking with a dentist to understand root canal treatment will assist you in your preparation for the treatment.