Feeling anxious about an upcoming dental procedure, especially a root canal treatment, is common. However, it is important not to postpone the procedure, as it can lead to tooth loss or tooth extraction. Please read our article to learn about overcoming root canal anxiety.
Overcoming Root Canal Anxiety
Below, we list several facts about root canal therapy that can help you concentrate on its positive aspects. We also give several tips for relieving your anxiety surrounding the procedure.
Keep All the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy in Mind
However scary a root canal procedure may seem, remember that it has major benefits for your oral and overall health. Root canal therapy is effective at:
- Terminating the infection in the tooth
- Saving the tooth from extrusion due to decay
- Preventing the infection from spreading to surrounding teeth
- Preventing gum disease and jawbone damage
- Improving overall oral hygiene and health by eliminating harmful bacterial growth in the mouth
- Improving overall health by stopping the infection in the mouth that can cause issues with the gastrointestinal system, the heart, lungs, and other organs
Stay Informed About the Procedure
Modern dental equipment and methods of treatment are designed to provide the patient with as comfortable and stress-free of an experience as possible. The procedure of a root canal typically involves several steps:
- Before the procedure, your dentist will conduct a physical examination and take an x-ray or a scan of your tooth.
- At the beginning of the procedure, the anesthetic will be injected into the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. If you choose sedation dentistry, the relaxant will also be administered at this time.
- During the treatment itself, your dentist will access the pulp chamber of the tooth through the crown and then remove the infected pulp. Then, they will clean the canals, making sure no infection remains inside the tooth.
- The next step is filling the canals with a biocompatible material and antibacterial medication if needed.
- If the tooth is significantly weakened by decay, it will be covered with a dental crown as the last step of the procedure.
If you want to learn more about the procedure beforehand, schedule a consultation with your dentist. Having accurate expectations and complete information about the procedure should help relieve your anxiety.
Remember That Root Canal Procedure Typically Is Not Painful
You will most likely feel minimal discomfort or none at all during root canal therapy because your doctor will inject an anesthetic into the tissue around the tooth before the procedure. Modern dental anesthetics are highly effective at blocking pain and can even prevent a person from feeling anything when a tooth is being extracted. Also, the strength of the anesthetic can be adjusted in most cases if the initial dose proves insufficient.
If you require root canal therapy, you probably experience much more pain and discomfort prior to the procedure than you will during it. You might experience some tenderness or discomfort for a couple of days after root canal treatment, but you can eliminate it by taking over-the-counter painkillers.
Keep in Mind That Root Canal Procedure Does Not Last Forever
In most cases, the root canal procedure takes only 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s position and the severity of the case. The recovery time is comparatively short and should take a week at most. You will be able to enjoy healthy teeth and return to your regular daily routine in no time.
Remember that a Root Canal Is a Safe Procedure
Dentists have been successfully using root canal therapy for decades, so the procedure and the methods employed are well-researched, predictable, and safe. Furthermore, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, including an x-ray or a scan, before the procedure so they are fully aware of the extent and the position of the decay in your tooth’s roots.
Ask Your Doctor About Sedation Dentistry
For some people, it may prove to be challenging to eliminate anxiety before a medical procedure due to different factors, such as prior negative dental experiences. In such cases, sedation dentistry can be helpful and effective. Modern methods of sedation dentistry are safe for the patients and can help patients relax or completely fall asleep for the duration of the procedure. Ask your dentist about sedation dentistry options if you find it challenging to cope with dental anxiety.
Make an Appointment Today
Do not postpone root canal treatment, and make an appointment with a top dentist in Hollywood today to have a comfortable and stress-free procedure. Our specialists are looking forward to your visit to our dental office.