Question:
Is it ok to have 2 root canals 6 days before surgery

I have written about needing 2 root canals and having no money. A kind friend has offered to pay for my treatment. I made the appointments then someone asked if it was ok with my surgeon. I'm in pain and need them done, I really did not consider calling my surgeon....maybe I don't want him to delay my surgery if I have this done. Any thoughts??    — Mandy M. (posted on June 6, 2001)

June 6, 2001
I would ask the dentist , after all he is a doctor. If you are having novacane or one of the derivitives I find it hard to believe their would be a conflict. But to ease your mind I'd call the dentists office in the morning and ask . Sometimes people need to keep there well meaning comments to themselves. They cause unnecessary worry. Good luck.
   — Rose A.

June 6, 2001
I would check with the surgeon. The dentist did not go to medical school and will not be familiar with the possible effects on major surgery. Dentists are extremely well qualified to treat the mouth but I would not proceed without medical advice.
   — Shannon S.

June 6, 2001
How wonderful for your friend to help you out with the expense of your root canals. that is a true friend, I had a root canal done about 10 years ago. I had no pain prior to the treatment but after the first step was done aninfection developed and I was in terrible pain. I ended up in the dentist on a Sunday morning ,the root canal was done on Friday. I was put on antibiotics and did ok after that. I don't know if it is possible to predict what type of difficulties you may or may not encounter with your root canal. I would sure talk to both your surgeon and your dentist to see if your plans need to be changed. You will be on pain meds after the surgery so maybe you can postpone your dental work until after your surgery or postpone the surgery. I know that isn;t what you want to hear but you really need to think about the stress you will be putting your body through . Good Luck, I hope all goes well.
   — [Anonymous]

June 6, 2001
Other peoples well meaning comments may cause unneccesaary worry, BUT they can also save you from lots of unneccesary pain and could also one day save your life! I think you should ask the surgeon and see what happens. Tough choice, but its your health. I hope and pray for the best outcome for you Mandy! Good luck and God bless! your cyber bud caligirl tam tx
   — CALIGIRL T.

June 7, 2001
I am a medical microbiologist and medical technologist... you should NEVER have any mouth surgery in the days prior to any surgery. The bacteria in your mouth is fine as long as it stays in your mouth but can compromise your health if it should get in your bloodstream... or infect a surgical site. Please consult with your surgeon and I am sure he will comfirm this.
   — [Anonymous]

June 7, 2001
Thanks everyone who posted a reply to my question. I did call my surgeon's office and was given the go ahead for the root canals. The only decision they are making before I go is what pain medication I can have or antibiotics.
   — Mandy M.