How to Prepare for Root Canal

Many patients find an upcoming root canal treatment daunting. However, root canals are a common, safe, and well-researched procedure that has been used in dentistry for decades. In most cases, root canal treatment is pain-free and stress-free. Please read our article to learn how to prepare for a root canal and ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible.

How to Prepare for Root Canal

A root canal procedure typically does not require a patient to have complicated preparations. However, the tips we list below might help you to have a more stress-free procedure.

Abstain from Alcohol and Tobacco Before the Procedure

Both alcohol and tobacco products slow down the body’s healing processes, which are necessary for recovery after the root canal. Also, alcohol and tobacco can interfere with the anesthetic or sedation that will be administered before the procedure. Thus, it is advisable to avoid these products for at least 24 hours before the root canal treatment. 

Get a Full Night’s Rest Before the Procedure

After a root canal treatment, your body will require strength to recover properly. The body’s ability to heal and restore itself is most effective when we are asleep. For a smoother and faster recovery, we recommend sleeping for at least eight hours the nights before and after the procedure.

Eat Before the Procedure

It is recommended not to eat for a couple of hours after the procedure, especially before the anesthetic wears out, to avoid damaging the restored tooth or biting yourself. So, having a filling, nutritious meal before the procedure will help you sustain yourself until you can eat again and give you the necessary energy for recovery. However, if you are going to be sedated during the procedure, ask your dentist about the appropriate eating schedule beforehand, as it might be necessary to abstain from food for a longer period. 

Stay Informed About the Procedure

Ask your dentist all your questions during your consultation. Staying informed about the procedure, the preparation, and the recovery period can help relieve anxiety about root canal treatment and make the procedure much smoother than it would be otherwise. Remember that your dentist would not recommend this procedure if it did not benefit you.

Ask Your Dentist About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry can be a good option for patients who experience acute anxiety and stress before operations. Mild or complete sedation can help the patient feel calmer during the treatment and simplify the procedure. 

Think of Ways to Relieve Anxiety if You Are Nervous

Beyond sedation dentistry, there are other ways to relieve dental anxiety. We have already mentioned that having your dentist answer your questions and learning about the procedure’s benefits can help you stay calmer. You can also try exploring breathing and relaxation methods, ask a friend to accompany you, and plan to reward yourself for going through with the treatment.

Take the Medication Prescribed by Your Dentist

In some cases, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics or other medication to take before the procedure. Make sure to follow the prescription and the recommended schedule for taking those medications.

Prepare a Soft Diet for After the Procedure

It is advisable to adhere to a soft diet for several days after the root canal treatment to avoid straining or damaging your newly repaired tooth. We recommend preparing the food in advance to avoid the need to travel to the store during the recovery period. Examples of soft diet foods that do not require much chewing include smoothies, yogurt, pure soup, mashed potatoes or other vegetables, pate, soft pasta and bread, etc. Remember that your diet should also be nutritious to give your body the necessary vitamins and energy for healing and restoration. 

Plan Down Time for After the Procedure

It is crucial to avoid sports or other strenuous activities for several days after the root canal procedure. Make sure to plan downtime and take a couple of days off work to be able to rest fully and help your body heal.

Prepare Painkillers and Other Medication in Advance

You might require over-the-counter painkillers and antibiotics (if prescribed by your dentist) for several days after the procedure. We recommend buying these medications in advance and having them on hand during recovery time. You might also need to prepare an ice pack to have cold compresses if you experience swelling after the root canal procedure.

Make an Appointment Today

The dental office in Arcadia offers high-quality, effective, and stress-free root canal treatment procedures to our patients. If you experience toothache caused by tooth decay or any other dental issues, do not hesitate to make an appointment at our office today. Our specialists look forward to welcoming you and your family to Smiles of Arcadia.