Visiting the dentist isn't something that many people look forward to, especially if they are feeling pain. If your dentist has referred you to an endodontist to receive a root canal, you may find that you need to wait a few weeks before the specialist can get you in for an appointment.

In order to avoid additional damage and discomfort, it's important that you take the time to learn what you should be doing while waiting for a root canal. Here are three helpful suggestions you can use in the future.

1. Ask your dentist about a temporary filling.

If the decay in your tooth is severe enough to expose the nerve, you may experience pain when eating, drinking, or breathing in cold air. If you are unable to receive a root canal quickly, you might want to talk to your dentist about a temporary filling to help you manage your pain while you wait for your endodontic appointment.

A temporary filling is designed to last about six to eight weeks, making it a great option for reducing nerve pain during the time between your initial dental appointment and your scheduled root canal.

2. Be sure that you ask for an antibiotic prescription if your tooth is abscessed.

Many times a root canal is needed because a tooth has abscessed. An abscess is a pocket of infection that forms when a decaying tooth allows bacteria to infiltrate the nerve. If your dentist identifies an abscess on your dental x-rays, be sure that you request a prescription for an antibiotic.

Abscessed teeth can cause sensitivity to hot or cold, fever, and feelings of general discomfort, so taking an antibiotic while you wait for your root canal can help you battle the negative symptoms of an abscess during the interim.

3. Use essential oils to help manage gum inflammation.

If you experience discomfort due to inflamed gums around an affected tooth prior to your root canal, you can rely on essential oils to help you manage the pain. One great essential oil to use when managing gum inflammation is myrrh.

Mixing one to four drops of this potent oil into one tablespoon of water (or a carrier oil like coconut) and swishing for five to ten minutes can help you keep inflammation at bay while you wait for your root canal.

Being able to manage your pain and discomfort while waiting for a root canal can help make the time between your initial dental appointment and your endodontic appointment more bearable.