How to Survive a Root Canal

A root canal involves removing the bacteria and nerve tissue in the root of the tooth. The inner area of the space will then be cleaned and filled in order to prevent further infections and decay from occurring. If you need a root canal, here are some tips to get through the procedure and the pain that will likely follow.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get enough rest and eat before the procedure. You need to keep up your strength because a root canal often involves spending an extended amount of time in a dentist's chair.

2. Expect an anesthetic. The most painful part for most people involves the anesthetic that is injected into your gums. If you are worried about the pain, pop an over-the-counter pain reliever a half an hour before the visit.

3. Use ibuprofen following the root canal. This helps to relieve both the pain and inflammation that occurs after the dental procedure.

4. Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth. To keep the tooth intact until it has been completely restored, you should not chew with that tooth. You don't want an extra visit to the dentist's office.

5. Contact your dentist's office if you feel a lot of pain and tenderness at the root canal site. They can let you know if what you are experiencing is normal or not and perhaps prescribe a stronger pain reliever.

Tips & Warnings

• Your regular dentist may choose to send you to an endodontist to get the root canal done. Endodontists are specialists in root canals.
• You need to practice good dental hygiene during the process of a root canal so you don't end up having to have the tooth pulled.

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