Root canals are intense procedures that require planning if you'd like to get the most out of them. Here's some advice from a dentist in Bayside, NY.

New data from community dentistry practices suggests that teeth last about 11 years after a root canal. Root canals have long had a bad reputation, yet they are an effective and safe procedure, with more than 15 million completed yearly.

A root canal treatment is ideal for those who can save existing teeth and thus forego the need for dental implants. If a root canal is on your dental care horizon, it's essential to know how to prepare for the procedure to minimize pain and optimize results.

Follow the tips below for a seamless procedure!

Ask Questions

Any procedure, regardless of how routine, can cause anxiety. Always ask your dentist any questions you have before the treatment. You should fully understand what the dentist will do and the outcome. Some questions you can ask include:

How many visits will the root canal take?
What equipment will you use for the treatment?
Will you use sedation before the procedure?
What should I do as part of the aftercare?
Will I experience pain after the procedure? If so, what should I do?
When can I return to work?

Discuss Antibiotics

Recovery from a root canal can be uncomfortable due to swelling and dental pain. However, it's also possible for an infection to develop, further increasing discomfort.

Speak with your dentist about taking an antibiotic. Many recommend taking one to ensure an infection doesn't occur during recovery.

Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco

During the root canal procedure, your dentist will inject your gums with a local anesthetic. It can have an adverse reaction if you've consumed alcohol or tobacco within 24 hours of the procedure.

For example, alcohol can induce dry mouth, change how your blood clots, cause your heartbeat to quicken, or depress your central nervous system. On the other hand, the nicotine in tobacco can change the way your blood flows. This could cause bleeding issues during and after your procedure.

Eat and Take a Painkiller

After the procedure, your mouth will still feel numb from the anesthetic, making eating difficult. Thus, eating a few hours before the root canal can help ease recovery.

Some dentists also advise you to take a dose of ibuprofen or acetaminophen before the procedure. It will help with the pain and swelling you may experience. If you choose not to take a painkiller before, make sure you have some at home for recovery. You don't want to be running to the store while you should be resting.

Sleep Well

There's nothing that helps the body repair itself more than rest. So get a full night's sleep before and after the treatment to help lessen the recovery time. Additionally, you should avoid strenuous activity for at least two days.

Prepare for Root Canals

When you follow these tips, you'll adequately prepare for your root canal treatment and feel optimistic about the procedure. Remember, root canals are common, so your dentist can walk you through the entire process and answer your questions to put your mind at ease.

If you need a dentist in Bayside, NY, to perform your root canal, or assess your dental health, make an appointment with Dr. Belen Velastegui today. She's been helping patients with their dental care for nearly 20 years and looks forward to helping you, too.

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