Root canals are used to remove deep infections in your teeth. They are the alternative solution to a tooth extraction, since it removes the infected tissue and actually saves the tooth. It's possible that you could be at a low risk of needing a root canal and actually prevent needing to go through the procedure. These tips could help you avoid a dental procedure that is not necessary
Practice Great Oral Hygiene
Since root canals are necessary due to getting an infection caused by decay and bacteria, the best defense will be taking great care of your oral health. This includes flossing and brushing two times every day, and using mouthwash to eliminate bacteria inside your mouth. When you are experiencing pain in a tooth, have it looked at right away before the problem gets worse. Keep up with your semi-annual check-ups, since those cleanings help keep the decay from happening.
Be Aware of Infection Signs
Root canals can be avoided if an infection is caught on the tooth's surface and it has not reached the tooth's pulp. A common sign that you have an infection is pain when you are chewing food, or sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures. Sensitivity is most noticeable when drinking beverages, since the liquid washes over the entire surface of the tooth. Infections can also cause tenderness or swelling, and even create a weird taste inside your mouth. Visit your dentist as soon as you happen to notice any of these things, and you can catch an infection before it becomes necessary to get a root canal.
Do Not Ignore Minor Problems
Have a shallow cavity that you have been meaning to get filled? You may be putting off having the procedure done, but waiting will just make the problem worse. Dental problems never get easier to fix by delaying when you fix them, since decay will continue to eat away at the tooth. What might have started as a simple filling could eventually need a root canal to correct the problem.
Consider A Tooth Extraction
A root canal essentially leaves a dead tooth in your mouth, with a crown in place to strengthen the tooth for eating. Extracting the tooth is the alternative option. It avoids any potential complications with a root canal, since if any part of the infected tooth is not removed during the procedure, the tooth will continue to decay. Extracted teeth need to be replaced, usually with an implant or bridge, but it is always an option for those that don't want a root canal.
For more info about avoiding a root canal, speak with a dentist like Smile Makers Dental.
Share15 December 2016
Halloween is a holiday that my children love, and telling them they can't go door-to-door collecting candy would break their hearts. This led me to allowing them to collect candy on the holiday, then rationing it out to them every day instead of letting them gobble it up in just a few days. I always thought this was better for them, but my dentist told me this could be the reason why their February dental check-ups were always their worst ones. Daily candy consumption was taking a toll on their teeth. I started a new tradition of letting them indulge for two days, then giving them the option to swap the rest with me in exchange for a new toy. They never pass on the opportunity for a new toy. I created this blog to encourage other parents find similar tactics to keep their children's teeth healthy after Halloween.