If you are getting ready to have a root canal procedure done, you are probably pretty nervous about how it will go. Although root canals don't have the best reputation, they are necessary dental procedures that actually aren't too bad if you prepare properly. Along with following your dentist's instructions, follow these three at-home tips before your procedure to help it go as well as possible.

1. Get Plenty of Rest the Night Before

The idea of having a root canal done can cause a lot of anxiety, which can affect how you feel before and after the procedure. Make sure that you go to bed early and get a good night's rest the night before so that you can feel your best when you arrive at the dentist's office.

2. Eat a Good Breakfast

Your root canal procedure could take several hours, especially if you include any time in the waiting room and time to "wake up" properly after your procedure. Plus, your mouth will probably feel quite numb for a few hours after your root canal, which can make eating uncomfortable and difficult. Therefore, it's good to go ahead and eat a proper breakfast before your appointment. Along with preventing you from being uncomfortable and hungry while you're having your root canal done, it will also help you prevent stomach upset from any medication that your dentist might give you.

3. Take an Anti-Inflammatory

Although it's smart to ask your dentist before your appointment, it isn't a bad idea to take an anti-inflammatory medication a few days before your root canal treatment and each day before the procedure is done. The anti-inflammatory can help reduce pain that you feel after your procedure and can also help with swelling, which can help you heal more quickly. Two good over-the-counter anti-inflammatories to take are ibuprofen or naproxen.

If you have a root canal procedure scheduled for the near future, you probably aren't looking forward to it. However, you should know that dental medicine has improved a lot over the years, and it isn't something to dread as much as people think. Plus, if you follow these three at-home tips before your procedure and listen to the suggestions of your dentist, you should be fully prepared for your root canal. This can help make the entire process a lot more pleasant and can even help with healing as quickly as possible.

Share