A root canal procedure is a common dental treatment for severe tooth decay or damage. It’s essential to provide relief for an infected tooth without losing it altogether. While routine, there are some key details to address before a root canal in Webster. Senior patients, in particular, can face some unique considerations.
Bone Density and Aging
Bone density is one of the most prominent issues that can complicate root canal therapy in seniors. As bone density naturally lowers with age, it can impact tooth stability and the ability to heal after a root canal treatment.
Senior patients experience different degrees of bone density loss. In some cases, bone grafting may be required to properly support a tooth that has been seriously damaged or decayed. However, root canal treatment is still possible in these cases and is often necessary to remove infected pulp and blood vessels.
Gum Health and Root Canal Treatment
Gum health is another top concern when planning any root canal treatment. Bacteria in your mouth generally cause gum disease and tooth decay, so they often go hand in hand.
Treating underlying gum disease before root canal treatment is critical to avoid oral health complications. The high levels of bacteria associated with gum disease and the infection of tissue surrounding teeth can pose serious risks during the healing period. If you have signs and symptoms of gum disease, you may require treatment before moving forward with your root canal therapy. However, combined treatments may also help prevent further tooth decay and help manage periodontal-related complications.[1]
Dealing With Pre-existing Conditions
Pre-existing conditions can pose challenges for seniors seeking any type of medical care, including root canal treatment. Issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis can all pose potential complications.
Communication between your dentist and your primary care physician is essential to properly treating pre-existing conditions. This is a routine part of dental care, so rest assured that your dentist will tailor your treatment plan to address your unique needs.
Adjustments to medications are also sometimes necessary before or after root canal treatment. Make sure to accurately disclose any medications you’re taking, whether prescription or over-the-counter, to your dentist.
Care After Your Root Canal in Webster
Root canal treatment is a common procedure that 8% of people face at one time or another.[2] Recovery is typically straightforward and comfortable. However, there are some important points to remember to prevent potential complications.
For example, maintaining your daily oral hygiene routine is essential. Continue to brush and floss twice each day. Be gentle around the treated area, but make sure to clean the area when brushing your teeth.
It is also important to keep up with routine checkups after root canal treatment. The underlying causes that led to the root canal could still pose a risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Routine visits let your dentist identify problems early and provide preventive treatment to protect your smile.
Root Canal Signs to Watch For
Root canal treatment is often highly effective at saving decayed or damaged teeth, but only when applied in time. Watch for these signs and symptoms of root canal issues, and reach out to your trusted dentist as soon as you notice any.
Increased tooth discomfort and sensitivity frequently suggest tooth decay. You might also notice swelling in the surrounding gum tissue. As the infection progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fever, may develop.
Dental trauma is another reason why you might need root canal treatment. A serious chip or crack that exposes the interior layers of the tooth can put you at immediate risk of tooth infection. Fortunately, root canal therapy can often save a tooth in these cases.
Is Root Canal Therapy Right for You?
A root canal in Webster could be the proper treatment to protect your smile and maintain oral health. The skilled team at Empire Dental Care provides a full range of gentle, effective treatments to support our senior patients. Contact us online today or call us at 585-671-1650 to schedule your appointment.
Sources:
