… While Having a Root Canal
- The noise in your head is not your problem or responsibility.
It is actually the sound of progress. You can ignore it or celebrate it.
2. Trust the process.
The endodontist knows what she is doing even though you don’t. And don’t try to understand what she is saying: you are in a foreign country with a very strange language.
3. It will be over when it’s over.
No amount of wishing will hurry it. Nor is there any “I’m done for now, let’s finish this later.” After all, “When you are going through hell, keep going.”
4. Welcome the distractions.
The sound of oldies-but-goodies filled the room. I sang along in my head and found myself tapping my fingers and wiggling my feet (no one noticed).
5, Relax your shoulders.
Tension saps energy and makes everything harder.
6. Remember to breathe.
Really, this should go without saying. But sometimes I need a reminder.
7. A little humor goes a long way.
My endodontist, hands and eyes completely involved in my mouth, sang along, under her breathe, to “American Pie.” It made her seem so … human.
8. Take the win.
Not only is my tooth repaired, but I now have conclusive, scientific proof that I am not now, and have never been, a “big mouth.”
(Now I wonder where else I can apply these insights … besides another root canal?)