If your endodontist has recently recommended that you get a root canal, it is natural to feel some anxiety. For many, the thought of undergoing this dental procedure like a root canal can be daunting. You may even worry that this will be a persistent issue and you will need multiple root canals in one tooth.

At David G. Johnson, DDS., we understand how concerned you might be about the risk of a failed root canal. Many people want to avoid one root canal, so the risk of multiple root canals can be even more daunting. If you want to learn more about your risk of needing multiple root canals and how to avoid them, keep reading. 

What is a Root Canal? 

Root canals are a common dental procedure, often performed by an endodontist, designed to save your tooth from increased decay and infection. During this procedure, your endodontist will remove damaged and infected tissue within your tooth, also known as the tooth pulp. Once this tissue is removed, they will clean the interior of the tooth and seal it with an adhesive cement to prevent further infection. 

The goal of your root canal is to preserve the natural structure of your tooth, preventing loss of the tooth and the need for a dental implant or bridge. Although root canal treatments are incredibly common and generally successful, there is always a small risk of failure. The success rate of root canal treatments is typically around 85% to 97%, which means that the vast majority are successful. However, there is a minority of patients who may experience complications or failures. 

Why Might You Need Multiple Root Canals? 

While a root canal aims to be a permanent solution to your problems, there are instances where you might need multiple root canals. Some reasons why this may occur include:

• Incomplete Treatment: Your teeth have complex structures, and some have multiple canals. If a canal is missed during the initial treatment, infection may persist, leading to a need for multiple root canals. Additionally, if the canals are not thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, bacteria can remain and cause reinfection. 
• New Infection: Decay can develop around a restored tooth, particularly if the filling or crown does not fit perfectly, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth. In addition to tooth decay, a new crack or fracture on your tooth can expose its interior to bacteria, leading to the spread of infection. 
• Restoration Issues: During your root canal, your endodontist may choose to install a crown. If the crown becomes loose or damaged, it can expose the underlying tooth to bacteria and repeat infection. Delaying the placement of a crown after a root canal may also lead to contamination and repeat infections. 
• Complex Anatomy: Some teeth may have additional canals that are difficult to detect, even during a root canal. These hidden pathways may harbor bacteria, which may mean you will need multiple root canals to fully clean and clear the tooth. 

How to Prevent Multiple Root Canals

While you may be concerned about your risk of needing multiple root canals, there are several things you can do to protect yourself. If you are worried about your risk, consider incorporating the following into your routine:

• Work with a Specialist: Instead of seeing a dentist for your root canal, consider seeking treatment from an endodontist. They specialize in root canal treatments and have advanced training and equipment to detect and treat all canals within the tooth.
• Timely Restoration: While you may want to wait to get a crown or filling, this can cause more harm than good. Ensure that your tooth is promptly restored after your root canal to protect it from further infection or damage.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: If you want to keep your teeth safe from multiple root canals, it is important that you schedule regular visits with your dentist. During these appointments, they can catch problems early on to prevent them from escalating. 
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from multiple root canals is by maintaining good oral hygiene. Remember to brush, floss, and use mouthwash to prevent decay and infection that may lead to the need for a root canal. 

Avoid Multiple Root Canals in Centerville, Utah

When you are dealing with repeat issues following a root canal, it is essential that you work with a reliable endodontist to address these problems. If you are looking for a reliable endodontic team in the Centerville, Utah, area, turn to our team at David G. Johnson, DDS. With years of experience providing reliable dental care to patients across the Wasatch Front, we’re confident that we’re the best choice for your dental treatments as well.

Our reliable endodontist, Dr. David G. Johnson, has been providing endodontic care to patients since 1990. With over three decades of experience, you can trust that there is no root canal too complex for him. If you would like to schedule an appointment with our team to discuss your need for multiple root canals or if you have any questions about the services we provide, don’t hesitate to contact us at our Layton or Centerville office today. 

If you are feeling anxious before an upcoming root canal, it is important to know that you aren’t alone. Dental anxiety before a root canal is a common concern for many dental patients, but there are practical steps you can take to alleviate your fears and make the experience more manageable.

At David G. Johnson, DDS., we understand how impactful your anxiety before a root canal can be. This anxiety may even prevent you from seeking the treatment altogether. If you are experiencing anxiety and want to reduce it before going into your root canal, keep reading to see what our team recommends.

What is a Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infected or damaged teeth. During this procedure, your endodontist removes the infected pulp, a soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels, from inside your tooth. They will then clean and disinfect the root canals. 

The process begins with numbing the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia for patient comfort. They will access the pulp chamber, remove the pulp, and clean the inside of your tooth thoroughly. After the root canal is done, the space is filled with biocompatible material to seal it and prevent the spread of further infection. 

Sometimes, a dental crown is used to restore the tooth’s strength after the procedure. Root canal treatments are necessary when the pulp is infected due to deep decay, trauma, tooth fractures, or repeated dental procedures. It can help save your teeth and maintain your smile for years to come. 

Is Dental Anxiety Common?  

If you have been to the dentist or endodontist before, you have likely experienced it before. However, you might wonder if it is common to experience this anxiety. While going to the dentist is common, it isn’t uncommon for patients to experience anxiety before a root canal and many other dental procedures. 

In fact, as much as 36% of the American population experiences some kind of anxiety before a visit to the dentist. You may find yourself experiencing more anxiety before larger dental procedures, like root canals. However, there are several ways to reduce anxiety before a root canal that should help make the procedure more comfortable. 

Ways to Reduce Anxiety Before a Root Canal

If you want to reduce anxiety before a root canal, there are several things you can do that can help relax your mind and distract you from the procedure. Some things you can do to reduce your anxiety include: 

1. Relaxation Techniques

There are several relaxation techniques you may want to use to help reduce anxiety before a root canal. Some of the most common and beneficial relaxation techniques include deep breathing and visualization. While you might not believe these relaxation techniques are going to be helpful, activities like visualization and deep breathing can help you calm your mind and relax your heart rate. You might want to try out these techniques ahead of time, so you aren’t attempting them for the first time when your anxiety is piqued. This will help you get the hang of these techniques and allow you to go into the procedure well-prepared. 

2. Use of Sedation 

While not every dental procedure will require sedation, it might be a good idea to talk to your endodontist about your sedation options to help reduce anxiety before a root canal. There are several different sedation options you may be offered, including nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, and oral sedatives. These sedation options will help you relax before the procedure begins, and may even put you to sleep until the procedure is over. It is best to speak to your endodontist about this before your root canal appointment, so they can have any necessary sedation medications available for you. 

3. Audio Distraction

If you aren’t using sedation for your procedure, you might want to consider bringing an audio distraction to help reduce anxiety before a root canal. Whether you enjoy listening to music or audiobooks, having an audio distraction is a great way to keep your mind busy during the procedure. If you have noise-cancelling headphones, your chosen audio distraction may also do a good job of blocking out the sound of the dental equipment. This might even be a good time to listen to your favorite podcast’s newest episode, an audiobook you’ve been looking forward to, or an album you love. 

4. Bring a Support Person

If you are experiencing anxiety before a root canal, it might be a good idea to see if a trusted friend or family member can accompany you to your appointment. With a trusted support person by your side, you may be able to quell your anxiety before going into the procedure. They can provide you with emotional support and reassurance prior to the start of the procedure, and may even act as a pleasant distraction before your endodontist begins. Whether you want a parent or good friend to go with you, a support person is a good way to reduce your anxiety. 

5. Ask Plenty of Questions

The very best way to reduce anxiety before a root canal is by asking your trusted endodontic team plenty of questions ahead of the procedure. When you are experiencing anxiety, unknown variables are often a big part of feeling this way. By asking your team plenty of questions ahead of time, you can help to ease this anxiety. With years of experience, your endodontic team is likely going to have answers to all of the questions you have ahead of time. You may even want to write out a list of questions ahead of time so you don’t forget anything. 

Reduce Anxiety with a Trusted Endodontist

One of the easiest ways to reduce anxiety before a root canal is by working with a trustworthy endodontic team, like our team at David G. Johnson, DDS. With years of experience helping patients across the Northern Utah area prepare for and go through root canals, we’re confident that we can do the same for you. Our amazing endodontist, Dr. David Johnson, has been practicing endodontics in Northern Utah since 1990, and we are confident that he can help you through any root canal procedure. 

From root canals to cracked chip repairs and traumatic injury treatment, our team does it all. If you are ready to schedule a root canal or you would like to speak with a member of our team to help you reduce anxiety before a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact us at our Layton or Centerville locations today.

There are a lot of changes that occur during pregnancy, and it isn’t uncommon for people to experience worsening dental problems throughout. With an increase in estrogen and progesterone and more frequent morning sickness, there is an increased risk of worsening oral health. In addition to the increased risk of cavities, it isn’t uncommon for your dentist to determine that you need a root canal during your pregnancy. 

However, you may not know whether you can safely get a root canal during your pregnancy or if there are any risks associated with the procedure. At David G. Johnson, DDS, our team wants you to understand the ins and outs of getting a root canal when you are pregnant. If your dentist or endodontist has recommended a root canal during your pregnancy, keep reading to learn more about the procedure. 

Can You Get A Root Canal During Your Pregnancy?

While we know there are many myths about receiving oral care during your pregnancy, it is important to know that many myths have no basis. You should be scheduling regular appointments with your dentist prior to pregnancy, which should protect you from cavities and the need for root canals.

However, if you haven’t gone in for a routine checkup with your dentist recently, you should schedule one once you find out you’re pregnant. At this appointment, they may determine that some cavities have progressed too far and you need to get a root canal during your pregnancy. While we know this might seem intimidating, getting a root canal during pregnancy is completely safe. 

When Should You Schedule Your Root Canal During Your Pregnancy?

If you’re ready to schedule your root canal, you might wonder if there is an appropriate time for this procedure to take place. When it is time to schedule your root canal during your pregnancy, it is best for you to schedule this during your second trimester. For many pregnant people, scheduling your root canal between 14 and 20 weeks is best. 

You will likely want to avoid a root canal during the first trimester of your pregnancy to prevent any risky procedures while the pregnancy is still so new. After the third trimester of pregnancy ends, you may schedule a root canal, although you may find it too uncomfortable to lay on your back during the procedure. 

Do You Have To Get X-Rays Before Your Root Canal?

While there are many X-rays you can avoid during your pregnancy, the X-ray before a root canal is not one of them. The American Pregnancy Association states that dental X-rays should be safe as long as adequate shielding is available. This shielding should come from your endodontic team, who will offer you an apron to protect you and your baby from radiation exposure.

It is important that you don’t try to put off this X-ray prior to the root canal during your pregnancy. While we are sure you’re nervous about the X-ray, it is essential to ensure your root canal is successful is essential. Your endodontist will use the X-ray to guide them through your tooth and ensure it is properly filled after removing the infected tissue. 

Are There Anesthetic Options For A Root Canal During Your Pregnancy? 

You may worry about the use of anesthetic when undergoing a root canal during your pregnancy. However, there is no need to worry. The American Dental Association does say that you may use local anesthesia during a dental procedure. However, your endodontist will likely follow the recommendation of the American Pregnancy Association. 

They recommend using as little anesthesia as possible when performing dental procedures during pregnancy. It should be just enough to make you comfortable throughout the duration of the procedure. It is best to ask for additional numbing if you don’t find the initial amount satisfactory. 

Can You Take Medication After Your Root Canal While You’re Pregnant? 

After your root canal, your endodontist may prescribe you an antibiotic to help prevent any reinfection of the affected tissue. Many antibiotics, including penicillin, cephalosporin, and clindamycin, are safe to take during pregnancy. Your endodontist will only prescribe the safest antibiotic dosage, but if you are worried, you may want to discuss this medication use with them.

In addition to taking an antibiotic after your root canal, you may want to take pain medication. Your endodontist will likely not prescribe a pain medication, as they are often unnecessary following the procedure. However, if you are feeling a bit of discomfort, you may take acetaminophen. You should avoid taking NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) for the duration of your pregnancy. 

How Can You Care For Your Teeth During Pregnancy? 

With many people reporting increases in tooth sensitivity during pregnancy, it is essential that you care for your teeth to the best of your ability. You should continue brushing your teeth at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. Due to the increased risk of gingivitis during pregnancy, your gums may be more sensitive and bleed more often.

To avoid this, switch to a soft bristle toothbrush. If morning sickness makes brushing your teeth too difficult, you should rinse your mouth with water and baking soda. You should also continue seeing your dentist as normal to ensure you aren’t experiencing any cavities or other problems, and avoid any sugar-rich foods and beverages. Finally, remember to floss every day to help maintain healthy gums. 

Schedule Your Root Canal With A Trusted Endodontist

Many people experience anxiety around dental procedures, and root canals are no different, especially when you need a root canal during your pregnancy. While we know this procedure is intimidating, working with a trusted endodontist during your root canal can help alleviate some of this anxiety. Dr. David Johnson has been a practicing endodontist in Northern Utah since 1990, and we are confident that he can help you through any root canal procedure.

In addition to our exceptionally trained endodontist, our team can help make this entire process smooth and alleviate any fear you may be experiencing. If you are interested in scheduling a root canal during your pregnancy or would like to speak to a member of our team, contact us at our Layton or Centerville office today!