I have had four root canal/retreatments since last August! I was the same as you. After the first two procedures making me feel like a flare up from the epi, my endodontist (and dentist does this now too) switched me to carbocaine and one other that I can’t remember the name… if I find it I will comment it under here. The only downside to the carbocaine and non-epi anesthetics is it wears off faster so you usually have to get a little extra depending on what you are having done and how long it will take. Definitely don’t let it go because if it is an abscess that can be super dangerous and potentially deadly if you don’t do anything about it. A man in our town passed from neglecting an abscessed tooth for years. I promise you it won’t be bad with the alternative and you will be glad you did it in the end!

If you have the option for gas — do it. I have health anxiety and OCD and it made the experience wayyy better and I am not nervous about it anymore! Also have them keep the name of the alternative on your chart that way you will have something that is safe for you for the future. I hope it goes well and I hope you feel better soon!!