As a young mother, I was reasonably ignorant when raising my firstborn. My biggest regret is that I didn't help her take better care of her teeth. Like many people, I didn't realise the importance of baby teeth, resulting in long-term dental problems. Recently, my daughter got married and some of my tears were for the beautiful, glistening smile she presented to the cameras. Ever since I realised the dental damage I had caused, I had been saving for my daughter to have cosmetic dentistry. The results are remarkable. During the course of this journey, I have learnt a lot about caring for children's teeth and corrective procedures that can be undertaken when issues arise. I am sure many of you would be interested in the latest knowledge and techniques that are available to prevent and repair dental complications. I'm Margret Devlin - thanks for visiting.
While the initial goal is always to save the tooth, sometimes the gum infection is beyond repair when a person experiences intense pain. A root canal is a type of dental treatment used to get rid of infected pulp from a particular tooth. Rumour has it that root canals are painful but the truth is that you can have a smooth experience if you prepare well and follow the dentist's after-care advice. Here are some actions to help you get ready for a root canal.
Stay Away From Tobacco And Alcohol Leading Up To The Root Canal
Tempting as it is to have a glass of wine with a meal just before your root canal, you're better off staying away from alcohol completely in the days leading up to the procedure. Keep in mind that a root canal is a mini surgical procedure so your dentist will likely inject a local anaesthetic into your gums. Any alcohol, tobacco or drugs in your system could result in you having an adverse reaction to the anaesthetic. If you're on any pain medication or psychiatric drugs, make sure you let your dentist know so that appropriate advice can be given ahead of the procedure for the safest results.
Avoid Chewy And Hard Foods Before And After The Root Canal
Some chewy and hard foods can be absolutely delicious but try to resist them in the days leading up to and just after your root canal for the quickest recovery. Before the procedure, these chewy foods can further irritate and inflame the already infected area. After the procedure, these foods will press and pressurise the sore jaw that has just been treated. Instead, stick to soft foods like mashes, soups and purees to expedite the recovery process after your root canal.
Make Sure You Follow Your Dentist's Hygiene Advice Ahead Of The Root Canal
Your dentist may recommend certain dental hygiene practices to follow ahead of the root canal to avoid further inflaming the infected area so make sure you follow this advice thoroughly. This may involve brushing and flossing after meals, mouthwash every few hours, and avoiding sugary foods and drinks that could stick to teeth enamel and cause further complications. Follow this advice carefully to aid your root canal treatment recovery process. If you have any pain after eating or brushing, make sure you communicate this to your dentist immediately for appropriate medication to be given.
A root canal doesn't have to be scary as long as you prepare well and follow your dentist's recommendations.
Share15 June 2018
