The need for a root canal usually occurs after a cavity on a tooth has been filled in one or more times, and the tooth is now no longer able to be filled in. The root canal is necessary in order to save the tooth, rather than having it pulled out. If you are in need of a root canal, read on for everything you should know.
Why Not Pull The Tooth?
Pulling the tooth leaves a gap in your teeth, which can cause your other teeth to move and shift. If your teeth move and shift out of place, you could end up with crooked teeth, which may make you feel self-conscious. The shifting of your teeth may also cause you pain or could make it difficult to eat anything too hard or tough. A root canal allows you to keep your tooth.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is the drilling of the tooth to remove the entire contents of the tooth (including the root), leaving nothing but the outer enamel of the tooth. The tooth is then filled in and a cap put on the tooth to keep its shape. Removing the root helps prevent pain in the tooth that is caused by cavities. This is a procedure that has been done for centuries. You are numbed for this procedure and it is done in the office. A root canal procedure is performed as long as the tooth is healthy and you yourself are healthy as well.
How Do You Prevent Root Canals?
Prevent a root canal by preventing cavities in the first place. Eat a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Skip sugary drinks and foods, and drink plenty of water as well. If you are a smoker, cease smoking immediately. Smoking can lead to gum disease and can shrink the capillaries in the gums. Brush your teeth twice per day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes. After eating and after drinking coffee, tea, soda, and juices, rinse your mouth out with mouth rinse or using water. Rinse your mouth throughout the day as well. Visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups is also important in caring for your teeth and to improve your oral health.
Root canals have been performed for centuries and are important in keeping your natural teeth when a filling is no longer an option for you. Talk to your dentist about having a root canal and to have a checkup and cleaning today.
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