If you have a cracked tooth or an infection deep within your tooth, you may need a root canal. During this procedure, a specialist removes the infected center of the tooth, cleans it out, and fills it. While the root canal process is critical to your oral health, the preparation before the procedure also plays a major role. Our knowledgeable professionals at Rockland Dental Specialists can help you determine what you need to do before your root canal to ensure it goes smoothly.
We have over 24 years of combined experience working on all types of dental conditions and procedures, including root canals. We utilize the latest technologies and techniques in our state-of-art facilities so you can know that you are getting the best care possible. In addition to our unmatched services, we show you compassion and education when developing your personalized treatment plan. Our caring team always puts your health and safety first by considering your health history and answering all your questions.
7 Steps to Take to Prepare For a Root Canal
While our specialists handle the root canal procedure, you can take steps before you come in to minimize discomfort and maximize results. These steps include the following:
Ask Questions
We understand going to the dentist and getting a procedure can be daunting, so we suggest asking any questions you have to ease your worries. Our well-trained specialists have extensive knowledge about your condition and root canals, helping you know what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Getting a full night’s sleep before your root canal ensures your body is best prepared for the procedure. Plan to get another full night of rest after the root canal because your body does most of its healing during this time.
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol can slow your recovery time and increase the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. Therefore, you should avoid them for at least 24 hours before getting a root canal.
Eat a Small Meal
Before performing your root canal, our specialists administer anesthesia to make the procedure as painless as possible. This can take several hours after the process to wear off, and it may make your mouth numb, which can make it difficult to eat. Therefore, we recommend eating a small meal a few hours before the root canal so you don’t have to worry about feeling hungry afterward.
Take a Pain Reliever
Taking a pain reliever before your root canal can help alleviate any pain or soreness you experience during and immediately after the procedure. We can help you determine which type of pain reliever to take based on your needs.
Arrange a Ride Home
While not all root canal patients need a ride home after their procedure, you may need to schedule one depending on the type of anesthesia you receive beforehand. Some cases only require local anesthesia, leaving patients capable of driving home themselves. Others may require more sedation to fully relax, which may require them to arrange a ride home. We can discuss your sedation options before the procedure so you can make ride arrangements if needed.
Stock Up on the Appropriate Foods
After your root canal, you should eat soft, cool foods and avoid hot, crunchy, spicy ones. We recommend stocking up on anything you need before the procedure, so you don’t have to worry about grocery shopping afterward.
Schedule a Consultation With a Trusted Professional at Rockland Dental Specialists in New York
If you need a root canal, you may be worried about the process and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. With the support of our team at Rockland Dental Specialists, you get all the help you need, including advice about how to prepare for a root canal. Proper preparation helps the procedure go smoothly and makes recovery much more manageable.
Our highly-trained team strives to earn your trust and provide unmatched, personalized care using our updated technology and methodologies. We prioritize your safety and comfort by guiding you through the entire root canal process, including preparation. Give us a call at (845) 400-9205 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.
