A root canal is a procedure to preserve a dying tooth. Before your procedure, the number one thing you should do is understand what it is and why it’s necessary.
This video will walk you step-by-step through the procedure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDlS72Dt93s
After you’ve gained an understanding of root canals, and have asked your endodontist any questions or concerns you may have, there are things to do before your scheduled root canal:
- Dress comfortably, you’ll be sitting in a chair for a few hours
- Download an audiobook, discover a good podcast or download new music beforehand to listen to during your procedure
- Stay away from eating right before your appointment
- Avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages for at least 12 hours before and after the procedure (or however long the doctor recommends)
- Your dentist may recommend that you take an over the counter anti-pain or anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen, before arriving at the office on the day of your procedure
- Ask your dentist if you should take an antibiotic several hours before the procedure to avoid infection
- Consult your doctor about other medications that you may be taking, i.e. blood thinning medication shouldn’t be taken that day
Have any specific questions on root canal preparation? Scroll down and use the ask us section and we’ll be happy to answer.
