How to Avoid Needing a Root Canal

Endodontics: What is a root canal procedure?

Your teeth are living parts of your body. A hard exterior not only makes a good chewing surface but also protects the soft interior of each tooth along with the nerves and soft tissue that resides within it.

If the dentin becomes damaged and the pulp becomes exposed, you run the risk of infection occurring inside the tooth.

During a root canal procedure, we remove the pulp in a damaged tooth, clean out any residual tissues and seal or cap it with a filling or dental crown. This prevents the need for an extraction.

A root canal can alleviate the pain associated with the infected or inflamed tooth pulp and allow you to continue to eat, smile and talk properly. Your chances of needing more significant or long-term tooth repair will also be reduced.

When are root canals necessary?

There are many possible causes of tooth infections. Here are some main causes behind the need for a root canal:

• Faulty crown
• A tooth with repeated dental procedures
• Injury to a tooth
• Chipped or cracked tooth

How can you avoid the need for a root canal?

Root canals are not entirely pain-free. Even the gentlest dentist cannot prevent all pain when it comes to dental services. Luckily, you can help avoid root canals by caring for your teeth and keeping up with routine professional dental care along with the following:

• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice daily, or as prescribed by your dentist. No matter how tired or busy you may be, don't forget this step. 
• Visit your dentist for preventive care every six months, or as prescribed by your dentist.
• Avoid particularly crunchy or hard foods and candies, especially if you already have weak teeth or dental restorations. These can easily cause teeth to crack and leave your tooth vulnerable to bacteria, which can enter the root system and cause damage from within.
• Do not chew ice! This can fracture or crack teeth and allow bacteria to access and infect the pulp.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks; they cause wear on your enamel and expose the teeth to sugar.
• Wear night guards or sports guards to protect your teeth from damage.

Seeing your dentist for regular checkups and hygiene cleanings is critical to maintaining your oral health. The dentist can also check for early indications of dental issues before they develop into larger issues. Any dental treatments can then be performed to prevent these problems from becoming worse or spreading to other teeth.

If you are experiencing dental pain and would like to request an appointment, please contact our Calgary dentists today.