Nearly 90% of adults aged 20 to 64 in the United States have experienced some form of tooth decay.[1] And though an infected tooth can be simple to treat at an early stage, failing to do so leads to further, more serious oral health issues, resulting in the need for root canals and even tooth extractions. With that in mind, it’s essential to understand what you can do to prevent needing a root canal in Webster, NY.
What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the infected pulp in a decayed tooth. The pulp is a jelly-like substance that sits beneath the dentin and contains the tooth’s nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.[2] Once removed, your dentist will replace it with a material known as gutta-percha and some dental filling. A dental crown is usually necessary to protect the tooth after a root canal treatment.
Some of the symptoms that could tell you it may be time for root canal therapy include the following:
- Swollen gums
- Persistent tooth pain
- Swollen jaw
- Loose tooth
- Pimple on your gums
- A discolored tooth
Altogether, a root canal procedure and the crown restoration after it can be lengthy, stressful, and expensive. Additionally, for people who suffer from dental anxiety, this could be even more complicated. It is not surprising that most people would avoid getting a root canal treatment in the first place. For people who suffer from dental anxiety, this kind of treatment can be complicated to approach, which could result in delaying the care they need.
How to Avoid Getting a Root Canal in Webster
As mentioned, the most common reason for needing a root canal is an infected pulp, which started from a cavity. There are other reasons for needing a root canal, such as injury to the tooth from trauma. So, in most cases, it may sound simple, but it’s true: If you don’t get cavities, you won’t need a root canal. Therefore, to avoid this invasive procedure while also preventing the need to have a tooth extracted, you want to keep a few dental hygiene tips in mind:
Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Brushing and flossing remove food particles left behind between teeth after eating. These particles attract bacteria, which causes plaque and destroys the enamel that protects the tooth. This leads to the development of cavities.
Brushing your teeth after each meal is ideal, but twice a day is sufficient. Additionally, make sure to floss twice a day as well.
Get Your Cavities Filled
If you do notice that you have cavities, turn to your dentist to get them filled as soon as possible. That will prevent further damage, ensuring that bacteria cannot enter the pulp and cause infections that would require a root canal or extraction.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Using toothpaste that contains fluoride also helps prevent cavities. Fluoride strengthens the enamel, making it more difficult for bacteria to cause damage.[3] It can also help reverse early decay and benefit people with a history of dry mouth and gum disease.
Avoid Biting Non-Food Items
It’s common for people to use their teeth to tear packages open or to chew on pens or ice chips out of habit. All of these, however, are actions that can harm your teeth. Even tiny cracks on the tooth’s surface can allow bacteria in, putting you at risk of developing cavities.
Get Regular Dental Checkups to Avoid A Root Canal in Webster, NY
One of the best things you can do for your teeth is to get biannual dental checkups. Often, signs of cavities aren’t easy to spot if you don’t know what you’re looking for, but your dentist will be able to identify them quickly. The sooner you take action, the easier it can be to deal with them.
Prevent Tooth Decay With Help From Empire Dental Care
Having to get a lengthy and invasive procedure like a root canal can be stressful and expensive. To prevent such a problem, you need to take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing, using fluoride toothpaste, and reaching out to experts who can spot if you have a cavity.
At Empire Dental Care, our team can help you with checkups that can address oral health concerns while they’re still in their early stages. Not only can that save you time, but it can also help prevent pain and the need for more involved procedures. Schedule an appointment with our experts today online or by calling 585-671-1650.
Sources:
[1] https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/dental-caries/adults
