Dr. Garland and Dr. Lu
Before Your Appointment
We want you to be as comfortable as possible during your visit so it’s important to understand what you should do to prepare for treatment—and know what you can expect during it, as well.
Occasionally, last minute emergency patients can delay our schedule, so please allow extra time for your appointment. We value your time and will try to keep you updated if delays occur. If you’ve scheduled a visit and need to change it, please give us a call so that we can help reschedule.
You can also continue to take your normal medications before and after root canal therapy.
There are no specific food restrictions leading up to root canal therapy, unless you’ve been told you’ll need oral or IV sedation. Typically, though, you will only receive local anesthesia or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) prior to treatment. If sedation is needed, you should discuss further restrictions with your dentist or endodontist.
There are a few things you’ll want to bring with you the day of your procedure:
• Your referral form
• Insurance card
• Photo ID
• List of current medications
We have a new patient form for you to fill out once you arrive.
You may also want to bring headphones so you can listen to music, podcasts or an audiobook to help yourself stay relaxed during treatment.
While you may be nervous for your treatment, you can relax knowing that root canal therapy is typically comparable to having a filling done by your general dentist. Treatment will usually involve 45 minutes to two hours of chair time.
If only local anesthesia was used, you’ll be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.
The treated tooth can be a little sore to chewing pressure for a few days. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may need to take anti-inflammatory medication for a few days to help reduce discomfort.
Most patients report little to no post-operative discomfort after the GentleWave Procedure—and it offers patients fast healing and improved outcomes.
