How to Prepare for Root Canals: A Guide for First Timers

Bardmoor Family Dental • January 6, 2023

Did you know that approximately 26% of American adults have untreated cavities, and nearly 46% of adults have symptoms of gum disease? Untreated cavities lead to permanent tooth loss, leading to speaking and eating problems. Root canal treatments can prevent tooth loss and restore your dental health.

If you need a root canal, you're likely feeling nervous about the procedure. While root canals sound intimidating, they're a necessary part of your dental care, and the procedure is easier than you think.

Finding an experienced Dentist in Largo, FL, and learning more about what a root canal involves will put your mind at ease.

In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about preparing for a root canal.

What Is a Root Canal?

The first step to preparing for a root canal is to get a better understanding of the procedure.

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the damaged or diseased pulp from the center of your tooth. Pulp is tissue in the center of your tooth, which can become infected with severe tooth decay.

Filling vs. Root Canal

Fillings are for minor cavities and infections that haven't reached the pulp of your tooth. On the other hand, root canals are recommended when the infection affects the pulp.

When Do You Need a Root Canal?

Root canal procedures are necessary when bacteria invade the pulp of the tooth. Typically this occurs when you have untreated tooth cavities or a cracked tooth due to an injury.

Sometimes, you may not realize you have a tooth infection. However, there are specific signs and symptoms that you may need a root canal, which include:

Ongoing tooth pain
Tooth discoloration
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Swollen gums
Swollen jaw
Loose tooth
Pain while eating

How to Prepare for a Root Canal

Before your procedure, your dentist will answer any questions, review your overall dental health, and take X-rays. The dental staff will also review the total root canal cost and address your insurance overage or other payment options.

You'll also discuss the best type of anesthesia for your particular situation. Most of the time, local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and gum area.

However, some people need additional sedation to help them relax, like nitrous oxide or IV sedation. Your dentist will discuss these options with you.

In most cases, you'll receive instructions to follow before your appointment, which include the following:

Take Your Prescribed Medications

First, you'll need to take all your medications as prescribed. Some people are given anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics to take beforehand if there is a severe infection.

Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol 24 Hours Before the Procedure

Since tobacco products can interfere with your body's healing process, you'll be advised to stop smoking a few days before your procedure.

In addition, alcohol can affect blood clotting and dry out your mouth.

Eat a Healthy Meal Before Your Appointment

It's essential to eat a healthy meal a few hours before your appointment. This is because you'll receive local anesthesia, which numbs your mouth. Anesthesia can take several hours to wear off, making it difficult to eat immediately afterward.

Root canals can also take from 30 minutes to an hour and a half to complete, depending on the amount of damage and infection in your tooth. Having a nutritious meal will make you feel more comfortable throughout the procedure.

Buy Soft Foods

Immediately after your procedure, you may have some mild soreness and sensitivity. Due to this, it's best to eat soft food for your first few meals, such as:

Pudding
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Smoothies
Milkshakes

Once you're feeling better, you can eat other foods like eggs, pancakes, pasta, bananas, and oatmeal. Most people can eat normally within a day or two after the procedure, but you'll need to avoid crunchy or hard foods like candy or nuts.

Hard and crunchy foods can cause discomfort and increase inflammation, which slows your healing. You'll also need to avoid using straws or drinking hot beverages immediately after your procedure.

Sucking on straws can cause blood clots that form during healing to dislodge, leading to a painful condition known as a dry socket.

What to Expect During a Root Canal

Your dentist will first use local anesthesia to numb your infected tooth and the surrounding gum area. If necessary, you'll also receive additional sedation to help you relax.

First, your dentist will isolate your tooth with a rubber apparatus that keeps it dry throughout the procedure. Next, they'll make a small hole in the crown or the part of the tooth above the gums.

This hole allows your dentist to access the pulp of the tooth.

Special dental instruments remove the pulp, and then the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare them for the filling. The filling is a rubbery, flexible dental material known as gutta-percha.

Most of the time, you'll need a dental crown to place over the tooth. A dental crown restores your tooth's natural shape and appearance. Due to this, you'll usually get a temporary filling to protect infection from reoccurring while you wait for the crown to be made.

Once your crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary filling to place the permanent filling and the crown.

What to Expect After a Root Canal

You may notice mild sensitivity and discomfort for the first few days after the procedure. These are normal symptoms, and you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to manage any discomfort.

If you experience severe pain, swelling, or redness in your gums, you'll need to call your dentist immediately for an examination.

Preparing for Root Canals

Now that you know more about preparing for root canals, you'll feel much more comfortable during your procedure.

If you're looking for an experienced dentist in Largo, FL, you can turn to Bardmoor Family Dental for all your dental care needs. We offer general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, emergency dentistry, and procedures like root canals, extractions, and bone grafts.

Our experienced staff provides friendly and compassionate care and will ensure you feel comfortable during your visit. Make sure you contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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Restoring Your Smile with Full Mouth Reconstruction: Is It Right for You?

By Bardmoor Family Dental • March 13, 2025

You will likely be surprised to learn that one billion people have experienced a traumatic dental injury, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine. Full mouth reconstruction offers a transformative solution for individuals with extensive dental problems, restoring function and beauty. If you have been considering this comprehensive treatment, evaluating whether it is the right choice for your needs and lifestyle is crucial. Below, we will examine the key ways to tell if it is. Assessing Your Dental Health Needs Assessing your dental health before deciding if full mouth reconstruction is right for you is essential. A thorough examination will help identify underlying problems like tooth decay or misalignment. If these issues are present, addressing them through cosmetic dental procedures may be necessary to achieve the best results. Evaluating Your Candidacy for Full Mouth Reconstruction Full mouth reconstruction is not right for everyone, but it may be ideal if you have suffered extensive tooth damage or wear. If you have experienced severe tooth decay or genetic issues affecting your teeth, this procedure can help restore your smile and functionality. It is crucial to consider your age and the condition of your teeth before moving forward with a comprehensive treatment plan. Additionally, your overall health and commitment to long-term dental care can influence your ability to benefit from this process. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to discuss these with your dentist to avoid complications. You may be a strong candidate for full mouth reconstruction if you are dealing with: Severe tooth decay Multiple missing teeth Issues with bite or alignment These factors can all influence the success of your treatment, so it is crucial to assess each one carefully. Understanding the Benefits of Your Smile One of the primary reasons people choose full mouth reconstruction is to improve their smile's appearance. You can gain a natural-looking smile that enhances your overall appearance by addressing cosmetic and functional issues. The benefits of dental reconstruction go beyond aesthetics. A restored smile can also improve your confidence, allowing you to smile freely and without embarrassment. Weighing the Risks and Considerations Every dental procedure carries some risk, and full mouth reconstruction is no exception. The complexity of this treatment can mean longer recovery times and more follow-up visits than other procedures. There is also the financial aspect to consider, as it is a significant investment in time and money. While complete mouth restoration improves your smile and functionality, it may not address all cosmetic concerns or improve oral health. Determining the Cost vs Long-Term Value The cost of full mouth reconstruction can vary widely depending on the procedures required and the extent of work needed. While keeping your budget in mind is essential, you should also consider the long-term value of the investment. Full mouth restoration can improve the function and appearance of your teeth, reducing the need for future oral surgery and improving your quality of life. The initial cost might seem high, but the benefits of a restored smile and better oral health are well worth it for many. To better understand the total cost, talk to your dentist about available payment plans or financing options. Costs may include: Initial consultations and exams Cosmetic dental procedures like crowns or dentures Surgery, if required, for jaw alignment or implants Understanding these costs upfront will help you plan financially for the procedure. How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Decision Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining whether a full mouth reconstruction is correct for you. Consider the time commitment involved if you lead a busy life and have limited time for extensive dental treatments. The recovery period can vary depending on the procedures you undergo, and you may need time off work or regular follow-ups. If you have habits such as teeth grinding or smoking, these can affect the outcome of your reconstruction. Consulting With a Specialist for Expert Advice When considering a complex procedure like full mouth reconstruction, consulting with a specialist in the field is essential. A cosmetic dentist or oral surgeon can offer in-depth insight into treatment options. These experts are trained to assess your needs and tailor a treatment plan that fits your cosmetic and functional goals. They will clearly understand the complete mouth restoration process and what to expect. Exploring Alternatives to Full Mouth Reconstruction While full mouth reconstruction can be life-changing, it is not the only option available. If your dental issues are less severe, less invasive treatments may effectively address your needs. For example, veneers or bridges might provide a cosmetic solution without the extensive work required for complete restoration. In some cases, orthodontics or dental implants may be all that is needed to improve your smile. Talk to your dentist about the best options to match your goals and lifestyle, and weigh the pros and cons of each. Alternatives to consider: Dental veneers for cosmetic enhancement Teeth whitening for a brighter smile Dental implants for missing teeth These options offer a less invasive approach while improving your smile and functionality. Making an Informed Decision for Your Future Ultimately, the decision to undergo full mouth reconstruction should be made after careful consideration of your: Needs Goals Lifestyle Take the time to gather information and weigh the benefits of a smile makeover against the possible risks. This process is a long-term investment in your smile, and it is essential that you feel confident about your choice. A Full Mouth Reconstruction Could Be the Answer You Are Looking For Deciding whether full mouth reconstruction is right for you involves careful thought and consultation with your dentist. By considering your dental health, lifestyle, and long-term goals, you can make an informed decision that will positively impact your smile and mental health. Bardmoor Family Dental offers comprehensive, compassionate dental care tailored to your needs. From general dentistry to advanced cosmetic treatments, we provide high-quality services to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about how we can help.