What Should I Do to Prepare for a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure designed to remove infected teeth and tissue from your mouth. Damaged tooth pulp can be extremely painful, and it has many causes, including extreme cavities, deep cracks, and trauma. A root canal treats the damaged tooth pulp by removing the infected and injured tissue. Dr. Salvator La Mastra can help you figure out if a root canal is right for you. Schedule a consultation with Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS in Dallas, TX to see what Dr. La Mastra can do for you today.

How does a root canal work?

Many people damage their teeth, whether it be from cavities or trauma, which can lead to an infection in the tooth pulp. Fortunately, most of these issues can be solved by a root canal. Multiple symptoms that may indicate the need for this procedure include:

• Sharp dental aches

• Persistent mouth pain

• Pain while biting

• Sensitivity to temperature

• Swelling

• Discoloration

• Boils near the gums

A root canal is done using local anesthesia and occasionally offered with sedation. After the tooth is numb, a small opening will expose the pulp of the tooth. The exposed tissue will be removed, and the area will be disinfected. Finally, Dr. La Mastra will close the wound with medical-grade materials and a sedative filling to promote healing. Afterward, a custom-made crown can be crafted to restore the health and appearance of your tooth.

How can I prepare for a root canal?

Going through a procedure can be scary, so knowing what you can do to prepare is a great way to calm your nerves. There are multiple things you can do before the day of your root canal, such as:

• Pick up any pain relievers or medications you might need before the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with your treatment.

• Bring someone with you to your procedure. Depending on if you get sedation, a driver might be necessary for you to get home.

• Tell Dr. La Mastra about any medications you are taking prior to your procedure. You might need to change the way you take your medications before the procedure.

• Have ice and cold packs ready for after your procedure. There may be discomfort after the root canal, and ice or cold packs can help reduce swelling and pain.

• Discuss aftercare before the treatment. After your procedure, you might be in pain or under the influence of sedatives. It is important to know and understand how to care for your teeth after your root canal.

• Ask plenty of questions. Dr. La Mastra and the team at Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS in Dallas, TX are here to answer any questions you might have.

A root canal may seem overwhelming, but by preparing and knowing what to do after your procedure, you can make the entire process as seamless as possible.

Where can I get a root canal in Dallas TX?

Preparing for your root canal can seem like a daunting task, but if you know what to do and how to prepare, it becomes a lot easier. There are multiple ways to prepare for your procedure, ranging from asking questions about your care to buying supplies before your treatment. Contact Hamlett & La Mastra, DDS in Dallas, TX for a full consultation with Dr. Salvator La Mastra on the state of your oral health.