When you are told that you need a root canal, you might start to get anxious and nervous. However, there are things you can do to make yourself feel better and have a smoother experience when you get the procedure done. Here are some tips that may help.

Know the Facts

Finding out as much as you can about root canals may help you alleviate some anxiety; when you become aware that root canals are done to remove infected tissue that causes pain, you may feel more comfortable about it.

Pain is something that many people dread when they are scheduled for a root canal, but the truth is that it may not be as painful as you might think. In fact, in one study, people who have already had the procedure were six times likelier to call a root canal painless, compared to those who have never had one.

Share Your Feelings

Above all, it's important that you tell your endodontist that you are nervous about having a root canal. This is important for a number of reasons. For one thing, your endodontist can prescribe anti-anxiety medication that you can take before the procedure. Not only that, but during the procedure, the endotontist will be more attentive and talk you through the root canal as they go along, so you have some idea of what is happening and when it will be over.

Bring Your Own Music

Another way to calm down during your root canal is to bring along some of your favorite music. Your own music playing in the office will put you at ease and you'll be able to focus on the music instead of the procedure.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

When you feel yourself becoming nervous and uncomfortable, it is a good idea to have some relaxation techniques to use so that you don't become more anxious. You may try taking deep, cleansing breaths, or you might try visualization techniques to picture yourself somewhere you feel relaxed.

Bring a Loved One

When you're afraid, there is no better assistance than the help of a loved one. If your endodontist allows it, consider bringing a friend or family member with you. They don't have to hold your hand throughout the procedure; they can distract you with stories or think of ways that you might be more comfortable while you're having the root canal done.

Use the suggestions in this article to help you reduce your anxiety when you need to have a root canal. Talk to an endodontist, such as John P Poovey DMD PC, about more ways to make the root canal go smoothly.