How To Prepare For Your Root Canal: It's Not As Bad As You Think

When dental patients hear the words root canal, many think that they are in for a terrible experience. While many people are fearful, it is not a difficult or hard to endure procedure. In most cases, the pain that brings a patient in for a root canal is more severe than the actual root canal procedure. Many people get quick relief, especially those that are dealing with a hot tooth. If you have been told that you need a root canal, there are a number of ways you can prepare for the procedure ahead of time to make it easier on you.

Learn Some Deep Breathing Techniques

If you are nervous, one of the best ways you can help yourself calm down during a dental procedure is to learn some deep breathing techniques. One simply technique often used is to breath deep through your nose for a count of five, hold the breath for several seconds, and then to inhale the breath out of your mouth for a count of five. This rhythmic breathing will slow down your heart rate, and help you relax during any stressful situation. Take deep breaths during your procedure and focus on how the breath feels going in and out of your body.

Tell Your Dentist About Your Concerns

Your dentist should know if you are fearful about a root canal procedure. Have a discussion with your dentist about your concerns, letting them know about your anxiety over having oral surgery. Together you can come up with strategies to help you calm down. If it will help you to have the dentist describe what they are about to do every step of the way, explain this to your dentist. If you would rather have no idea what is going on, you should be clear with your dentist about this too. If your anxiety is difficult to control, your dentist may even prescribe medication to help you relax.

Take Your Comfort Into Consideration

You should wear comfortable clothes to your root canal, and you can bring a friend if you want to. If you are nervous about driving, ask a friend or family member to drive you to your appointment. While the root canal won't be as bad as you imagined, your physical and emotional comfort are important. If you feel the need to bring someone with you to help you remain calm, there's no harm in doing that. Contact a dentist, like Renovo Endodontic Studio, for more help.

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