Root canals...info?

[Cirrus]

Well, true to form, I thought if I ignored my toothache it would go away (I should learn by now...they never do), and my dentist says I need a root canal.

Who's had one? What do they do? I know they're not 1/2 as bad as the stories you hear, and not 1/2 as bad as what they used to be, but what goes on during one? Does it hurt a lot afterwards? I'm not really terrified or anything, but a little nervous. I'd be less nervous if I knew more about it.

 

[*bratcat*]

ok..here goes...

 

[Kasha]

not as bad but

Well, I have had a root canal and it was not as bad as what I had heard. It was in no way pleasant that is for sure. If you can be sure to have the dentist give you that nice, gas stuff. It will relax and you won't mind the whole thing too much. Essentially, the dentist goes in and numbs ya up. Then he drills a bit, makes a hole and then puts these little skinny skrew things in the tooth canal to pull out the root. IF he gives you enough anesthetic you should be fine really. Just go home and relax the rest of the day. It will definitely make the pain of the toothache stop. Hope you feel better.

 

[ranajja]

Root canals....been there...

If you can be sure to have the dentist give you that nice, gas stuff

And a valium to take about half an hour before. My dentist gave me a scrip for 1 or 2--and buddy, did it ever help!

Also, have him prescribe a nice pain-killer for afterwards!

My dentist is really good--bless his little heart, I never feel any of the shots he's had to give me--but he is excrutiatingly careful. I was in the chair for hours--

He also has a sign in his office that says:

Ignore your teeth and they will go away...


Good luck!!!

 

[PacificBlue]

I had one when I was in junior high due to an unfortunate swingset accident...they should put labels on those things!!! Anyway...it didn't hurt, I've had no nightmares about it. Personally, I would rather go to the dentist than go to the Dr.'s office. I know, I need counseling.