How to Prevent Root Canals
A lot of people have heard of root canal treatment and understand that it's something they should ideally avoid. The thing is, many people have misconceptions about what root canals are, why root canals are performed, and what the procedure involves. The team at our Fountain Valley cosmetic dentistry center would like to look at root canals in basic terms and then discuss how root canal therapy can be avoided.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment that involves the removal of the dental pulp within the tooth. You see, within a tooth there is actually a hollow chamber that contains soft tissue known as dental pulp. After this dental pulp is removed, it is then replaced with an inert material. A cosmetic dentist in Fountain Valley will determine whether or not you require root canal treatment.
Why are root canals performed?
The dental pulp within the tooth can become infected by bacteria as a result of major tooth decay or severe tooth injury, resulting in major pain and discomfort. Left untreated, the infected tooth can cause severe pain. Worse still, the infection may spread to other structures of the mouth, starting with the jaw. This restorative dentistry treatment will be able to save a tooth and relieve any discomfort in the process.
Let's now look at the ways that root canal therapy can be prevented.
Preventing Root Canals Through Regular Check-Ups
One of the best ways to prevent root canal treatment is to visit your dentist twice a year for regular check-ups. In addition to routine cleanings, tooth decay of varying degrees can be taken care of using dental fillings, inlays, onlays, or Fountain Valley dental crowns. By preventing tooth decay or getting the tooth damage addressed, it will prevent the spread of bacteria to the dental pulp.
Preventing Root Canals Through Proper Dental Hygiene
One of the staples of good general dental care really starts with patients themselves. Patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a night. Ideally, patients should brush and floss after every meal to remove food particles and plaque from their teeth. This keeps the mouth clean and prevents tooth decay from occurring or becoming worse.
Other Considerations for Advanced Dental Care Treatment
In addition to these basics, we also encourage patients to exercise caution and good judgment when playing full-contact sports or participating in activities that may result in injury to the head or face. Be sure to wear the appropriate mouth guards and protective gear to ensure that you do not experience tooth damage or dental injuries of any kind.
If you should injure your tooth in some sort of accident, be sure to speak with a dentist who performs emergency work. By getting a tooth restored as soon as possible after an injury, you reduce the chances of infection to the dental pulp as well as other problems down the road.
Learn More About Comprehensive Dental Care
For more information on your best options for advanced dental treatment and preventative care, be sure to contact our Fountain Valley cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental health.
