We understand that it can be overwhelming to prepare for dental work, especially for a root canal. Just hearing the word “root canal” stirs up anxiety in most patients. We want to help you feel as at ease as possible before, during, and after your procedure. If you’re in need of a root canal, Arvada specialist Dr. Paguio is here to help!
A root canal involves cleaning infected tooth pulp from inside the affected tooth, filling the tooth, and placing a crown to help prevent future infections. There are a number of things you can do before your procedure to help you prepare.
Pre-Op Patient Information
At your appointment, Arvada root canal specialist Dr. Paguio will begin with a consultation, during which he will go over your diagnosis and treatment options. This often involves looking at X-rays taken by your general dentist, so we ask that you please have those forwarded to our office or bring them with you to your appointment. Prior to beginning treatment, Dr. Paguio will go through the procedure step-by-step and answer any questions you have.
Once you have decided on a treatment option together, Dr. Paguio will also discuss your sedation options. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible during treatment, so feel free to discuss any anxiety you are feeling with Dr. Paguio. We highly recommend that you have someone escort you to and from your appointment due to the effects of sedation.
The Root Canal Procedure
Treatment will often begin on the same day as your consultation. Endodontist in Arvada, CO, Dr. Paguio, and the Art of Endodontics team will administer sedation to help you relax and get comfortable. The procedure will begin once your sedation has taken effect. You can expect your root canal to last anywhere from one to two hours.
Post-Op Patient Information
After your procedure, you will be sent home with post-op instructions. To best manage your pain once the sedation has worn off, please be sure you follow these instructions carefully. Note that discomfort typically subsides in a couple of days, but may last as long as a few weeks. Improvement will be gradual.
- The treated tooth will be very tender for a few days after treatment, so DO NOT chew on that side.
- If you feel any throbbing in the tooth, keep your head elevated, even when lying down. Refrain from any strenuous activity.
- We recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or aspirin for pain management. Take this pain medication for at least three to five days following the treatment. If you cannot take NSAIDs, we recommend extra-strength acetaminophen (Tylenol). Call our Arvada dental office if none of these recommended pain medications do not work, or if you cannot take any of them.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (one teaspoon salt to 8 oz. of warm water) three to four times a day.
- Unless otherwise recommended by Dr. Paguio, you should see your general dentist within two to four weeks to have the tooth restored and a permanent crown placed.
- If you initially feel better but then get significantly worse, you may be experiencing a “flare up.” These are not common, but if it does happen, call our office.
Dr. Paguio likes to see patients for a follow-up visit at least six months after the treatment. At that time, he will evaluate the treatment’s outcome, be sure normal function has returned to the tooth, and examine the healing process of the bone. There is no charge for this visit.
“From the second I walked in the door I was greeted with warmth, compassion, and sensitivity. Dr. Paguio was thorough, gentle, and informative. With Dr. Paguio’s education, experience, and state-of-the-art equipment he was able to quickly and efficiently deal with my pain and fix the problem. I would highly recommend Dr. Paguio if you want excellent dental care!” — Deb
Patient Forms
For your convenience, you can complete our forms online to expedite the paperwork at your first visit.
Have questions? If you would like more information on the procedure or any patient instructions for before or after your appointment, give our office a call. We’ll be happy to help!
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