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Date sent: Sun, 7 Jan 2001 18:51:05 EST Send reply to: Parkinson's Information Exchange Network <[log in to unmask]> From: Nancy Van Hook <[log in to unmask]> Subject: root canal To: [log in to unmask] > > > Last Saturday I had a root canal (I was hoping to get thru life > without one, but not to be!) The Novocain did not wear off for almost > six hours, and then the pd meds didn't seem to do their job. I have > to go back on Wednesday to finish the job. Perhaps we could use a > little less Novocain this time . . . however, I do not like pain. Any > suggestions or advice will be appreciated. > > Nancy V > Mexico > Nancy, I have had two root canals (the first about 5 years ago and the second about a month ago) and neither of them were that bad. I have an excellent dentist who is very good "with the needle" (for the nerve block); and I also take a little nitrous oxide for relaxation during the procedure. The key to dealing with pain is to take the pain medication *before* you think that you really need it. Thus, any medication which the dentist prescribes should be taken at *regular intervals* for several days whether or not the pain is severe or not. You wind up taking much less drug over the course of the treatment. The "second part" of a root canal is usually not particularly painful or distressing because the nerve is already out. Usually, no anesthetic is required. Good luck. Best, Bob ********************************************** Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S., P. C. 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, California 94704-2636 Telephone: 510-849-2555 FAX: 510-849-2557 WWW: http://www.rafink.com/ mailto:[log in to unmask] "Ex Tristitia Virtus" *********************************************