“I’m Anxious About My Upcoming Root Canal”
The mere mention of a ‘root canal’ often sends shivers down many of our patients’ spines. It’s understandable—this procedure has long been associated with discomfort and anxiety.
Fortunately, dentistry has evolved significantly in recent years, transforming root canal therapy into a far more comfortable and manageable experience. It’s no longer the daunting ordeal it once was for your parents or grandparents. Our focus is on making this procedure painless, straightforward and stress-free, aiming to preserve your tooth without unnecessary extraction.
Adding conscious sedation to your treatment plan can also help ease your anxiety. This method helps you drift into a relaxed state while still being able to maintain communication with your dentist, easing any apprehensions you might have.
If you’re feeling anxious about your upcoming root canal appointment at our practice, this blog post can address your concerns and put your fears to rest.
And if you’re currently under the care of another dental practice in Bristol, consider requesting a referral to us for a stress-free and painless experience.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root Canal Therapy is a vital procedure that rescues infected, inflamed or damaged teeth, to spare them from extraction.
During this procedure, our Endodontist delicately removes the affected pulp within your tooth, thoroughly disinfects the chamber, and replaces it with “gutta-percha”, a specialised material that prevents further infection. To seal the tooth, they will use a permanent filling or, in cases of tooth discolouration, a porcelain crown might be recommended.
Historically, root canals carried a reputation for being a painful and distressing experience. However, modern dentistry has come a long way since then. With the application of local anaesthesia, root canals are now virtually painless. The only discomfort you might encounter is a mild tenderness post-treatment, which can be eased with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen.
For some patients, the sensory aspects of a root canal—particularly those with dental phobia—can pose challenges. The clinical setting, local anaesthetic administration, or the sound of the dental drill might trigger anxiety. To address this, we offer sedation options to ensure a more relaxed experience. We have also made our dental rooms as calming and cosy as can be.
At The Bristol Dental Practice, we foster open communication and will work closely with you to ensure your well-being. Whether it involves bringing a supportive friend or family member, listening to soothing music, or opting for our sedation methods, we will work with you to banish any fear associated with dental visits. Our primary goal is to ensure that you aren’t afraid to return to us and can continue caring for your oral health with confidence.
Recognising the Need for a Root Canal:
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, a root canal might be necessary:
- Intense tooth pain or heightened sensitivity
- Swollen or inflamed gums
- Darkening of the affected tooth
- Presence of pus or discharge around the affected tooth
- An unpleasant taste lingering in your mouth
If you notice these signs, scheduling an appointment with one of our dentists is crucial. They’ll assess your condition and determine whether a root canal or an alternative treatment is needed. The sooner you seek help, the better the chances are of preserving your tooth and preventing the spread of infection to neighbouring teeth.
Many patients express immediate relief from these symptoms after having a root canal.
For a deeper understanding of why a root canal is preferable to extraction, read our previous blog post, ‘Demystifying Root Canal Therapy.’
How Has Root Canal Treatment Evolved?
- Technological advancements, ranging from improved X-rays to more refined tools used during the treatment, have revolutionised root canal procedures. This technological precision has made the treatment notably less invasive and significantly less painful than before.
- The effectiveness of local anaesthesia has vastly improved, ensuring that patients experience no discomfort.
- Conscious sedation is a safe and effective option for dental patients with anxiety or phobia, making treatment more manageable and improving outcomes.
How Can Conscious Sedation Help?
Conscious sedation offers a pathway to relaxation and comfort during treatment, and makes time pass swiftly. While under its effects, you’ll maintain the ability to speak to your dentist while experiencing a sense of contentment, relaxation and warmth.
We offer Intravenous sedation—the safest and most potent form of conscious sedation out there. Administered through a cannula placed at the back of your hand, this method often leaves patients with little to no memory of the procedure and proves to be highly effective in alleviating dentophobia and dental anxiety.
Considering Sedation to Ease Your Nerves Before Your Appointment?
Planning ahead is key. You’ll need to make a request for sedation in advance so that we can arrange a consultation to discuss your medical history and determine if sedation is suitable for you. This consultation is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have. Please get in touch with our friendly reception team to book a consultation with our Treatment Coordinator, Rebecca Hawkings.
Root Canal Therapy at The Bristol Dentist
Our root canal treatments are expertly handled by Dr Justin Underwood, our resident Endodontist renowned for his expertise in saving teeth. Justin consistently achieves successful outcomes, even in complex cases, while prioritising the well-being of our patients throughout treatment.
Final Word
We encourage you to schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing any symptoms that might indicate a need for a root canal. Our team is here to guide you through the process, address any concerns, and restore your dental health with care, precision and compassion.
Contact our practice today at 0117 405 4369 or book an appointment online.
For self-referral to our practice, please head to our referrals page for more information.