Posted on August 26, 2019
A routine appointment at the dentist can be nerve-wracking enough for many dental patients. So when a more intensive procedure is required, such as a root canal, some people really start to worry.
The common procedure, performed when infected or injured tissue (pulp) is removed from a tooth’s crown and roots, is also referred to as endodontic therapy. Although typically a root canal is caused when decay and bacteria enter a tooth and create an abscess, it can also be a result of trauma. Left untreated, the damage becomes very painful.
Root canals can be costly (even if you have insurance) and can create short-term sensitivity and discomfort. However, in many situations, they are often the only option to help save or restore a tooth.
The best way to avoid getting a root canal in the first place? Take some preventative measures! Here are five of them:
#1) Complete Proper Oral Hygiene - That means Flossing and Brushing your Teeth
Beyond just preventing cavities and bad breath, consistent and proper oral hygiene is your first line of defense against root canal issues. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day helps to eliminate root-damaging bacteria and prevent tooth decay from advancing to the pulp. This consistent cleaning routine is paramount in keeping your teeth and gums healthy and free from infection.
#2) Avoid Mouth Trauma - Buckle Up and Wear your Mouthguard
Do you clench or grind at night? Wearing a protective mouth guard can protect your teeth from fractures and exposure of a tooth’s roots.
The same goes for if you’re an athlete. Root canals are often performed on teeth that have suffered trauma. Prevent that from happening in contact sports by wearing a mouthguard.
When you’re in the car, always buckle-up. If you’re in an accident, you risk severe injury to teeth that contact headrests or dashboards.
#3) Be Mindful of What You Eat - Hard Candy can Crack Teeth
Eating hard foods such as carrots, apples, almonds, and hard candy can create cracks in your teeth and invite bacteria into your root system. If you already have weak teeth, avoiding hard foods is especially important.
Acidic drinks and foods break down enamel and coat the teeth with sugar, creating a haven for bacteria. If you can’t avoid these types of foods and drinks entirely, brush your teeth immediately after enjoying the treat.
And please never try to open a bottle with your teeth. You will not impress anyone doing this, and you'll most likely end up in the dental office paying an emergency fee after you've broken your tooth.
#4) Regularly Visit Your Dentist
If you experience any tooth discomfort between your regular visits, such as persistent pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or a small bump on your gums, do not delay in contacting your dentist. Treating issues at their earliest onset can prevent significant tooth destruction and often avoids the need for more complex procedures like root canal therapy or even tooth extraction.
When to Seek Professional Help (And Why It Matters)
While our goal is to help you avoid a root canal, it's equally important to know when a problem requires immediate professional attention. Ignoring symptoms can lead to more pain and more complicated, costly treatments down the line. If you experience:
- Severe toothache pain
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums
- A persistent or recurring pimple-like bump on the gums
- Discoloration of the tooth
Contact Creekview Dental immediately. Our experienced team can assess your condition and recommend the best course of action. Recent advancements in root canal therapy have made the treatment more comfortable, efficient, and successful than ever before, ensuring that if you do require one, you'll be in good hands.
For more information on root canal treatments, or to schedule a preventative check-up, please do not hesitate to contact our office today. Your oral health is our priority!