Did your dentist tell you that you need a root canal treatment? If so, there are several ways you’re able to prepare for your therapy that will ensure your experience is as stress-free and successful as possible.
Root canal treatments are performed under dental sedation. Because of this sedation, you will need to arrange a trip to and from the dentist. You absolutely may not drive yourself. You might feel alert after your treatment, but you are not and you won’t be fully awake for several hours following sedation dentistry, especially if IV sedation was administered.
Because your tooth will likely be tender following your treatment, you will want to be certain to have plenty of soft, tepid foods available. Avoid very hot or very cold foods or drinks, especially until your sedation has worn off. If your mouth is numb, you might not know that you burned your soft tissues with hot coffee until the feeling starts to return. Applesauce, yogurt, flavored gelatin and milkshakes are all good choices as you are recovering.
Have plenty of ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain killers on hand. Ibuprofen works well because it has anti-inflammatory properties. If you’ve been prescribed a narcotic pain killer, be judicious in its use. Narcotic pain relievers can leave you feeling dizzy or very sleepy.
Try to rest following your treatment. Sometimes sleeping is the best way to shake off dental sedation and wake refreshed, already on the path to a good recovery.
These and other tips are available to you from your dentist or endodontist as you prepare for your root canal treatment.
