Ways to Reduce Anxiety Before a Root Canal Procedure

Do you feel nervous about an upcoming root canal? Many people believe what they have heard about root canals and worry they will be painful and challenging. While a root canal can be uncomfortable, it is not as scary as you may think. Mentally preparing yourself for the procedure can also make a difference.

Check out our six tips for how to deal with root canal anxiety and how to mentally prepare for a root canal.

1. Become an Informed Root Canal Patient

The more you know about the procedure, the more at ease you will feel. Read about the purpose of root canals and the steps required to complete one. Root canals treat the inside of your tooth, removing the pulp when it becomes infected or inflamed. You might need a root canal if you experience:

• Darkening of the gums.
• Pain while biting.
• Sensitivity to cold or heat.
• Cracked or chipped teeth.

2. Think About Life After Your Root Canal

Think about how you will feel when your root canal is over — you will no longer experience the symptoms that led you to initiate treatment. You can also move past the discomfort that has plagued you. Knowing you will feel better and have a healthier mouth after the procedure can help you feel calmer.

3. Attempt Meditation and Visualization

People who practice meditation and visualization know self-soothing can help during your procedure. You can return to these techniques during the root canal, too.

Meditation can ease your anxiety by focusing on and addressing your worries. Begin by visualizing the root canal procedure. Think about yourself in the chair while the endodontist performs each step and imagine yourself remaining calm and feeling pain-free after the procedure. Consider actions you can take if you do begin to feel panicky or scared.

4. Practice Self-Care and Pampering

Self-care can help you relax and unwind when you feel anxious. Anyone can benefit from self-care techniques because they calm you down when you feel tense. Pampering may mean different things to different people, but before the procedure, you may want to try:

• Taking a long, relaxing bubble bath.
• Exercising to exhaustion.
• Getting a manicure or pedicure.
• Reading a book.
• Going to your favorite restaurant.

5. Listen to Music

Make a playlist just for your root canal that contains your favorite songs. Music has the power to soothe you when you feel on edge. A familiar favorite song can calm you and help you feel comfortable during uncomfortable moments. Music can also distract you during the procedure, covering up the sounds the endodontist makes as they perform the treatment.

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6. Contact Midtown Endodontist NYC

Knowing that your procedure will be performed by someone who has done many root canals may put you at ease. An experienced endodontist, such as those at Midtown Endodontist NYC, understands how to do the root canal most effectively and why keeping patients at ease is critical.

Now that you know how to mentally prepare for a root canal, it is time to schedule your procedure. Contact Midtown Endodontist NYC to book an appointment today or give us a call at (347) 708-8795.