Root Canal Infections: What They Are and How to Prevent Them
Dr. Timothy Kelly is proud to provide his patients in the greater Albuquerque area with the best possible dental care services, improving the aesthetics of smiles through cosmetic dentistry and enhancing dental health through restorative dentistry.
While the effectiveness of dental care treatments have improved over the years, prevention is still the most ideal approach to good dental health. Let's consider these matters with regard to root canal infections.
The Anatomy of a Tooth
Within every tooth is a hollow chamber beneath the topmost enamel layer and the underlying dentin layer. Inside of this hollow chamber is a substance known as dental pulp. This dental pulp is a bundle of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels that were essential for the initial formation of the tooth. The dental pulp aids in detecting sensations of heat, cold, and pressure on the tooth.
What is a root canal infection?
A root canal infection refers to the infection of the dental pulp within a tooth. This can occur as a result of tooth decay or tooth injury that allows bacteria access into the pulp chamber itself. The root canal infection results in serious pain.
Why Root Canal Infections Need to Be Taken Seriously
When a person suffers from a root canal infection, the pain can be quite severe. An abscess can form, and the infection can spread to the gum tissue, jawbone, and other parts of the mouth. This leads to major problems with your general health and dental wellness. Left untreated, this can make tooth extraction and other advanced dental therapies necessary.
These tips below will help in the prevention of root canal infections and much more serious health and wellness issues.
Brush and Floss Regularly
It's important that you brush and floss every day. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss your teeth at least once at night. Ideally, you should consider brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing after every meal as well.
Wear Mouth Protection When Applicable
In order to prevent serious injuries to the teeth that may make root canal infections more likely, it's important that you wear mouth protection and mouth guards of various kinds. These protective mouthpieces will prevent teeth from being damaged and help you have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.
Avoid Drinking Sodas and Sugary Beverages
When your parents and older relatives said that sugary beverages could rot your teeth out, they were right. The bacteria in your mouth that causes tooth decay loves to feast on sugars. A great way to prevent tooth decay and root canal infections is to avoid drinking sugary beverages and snacking on sugary foods.
Refrain from Using Tobacco Products
Tobacco products make gum disease and tooth decay more likely. By avoiding tobacco products, you will be able to avoid potential root canal infections and other dental health problems. This is also good for improving general overall wellness.
Root Planing and Scaling Treatment
Also known as deep cleaning, root planing and scaling is an ideal option for getting rid of plaque and tartar lodged in and around the teeth, particularly down at the gumline. This special scraping procedure helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and it makes root canal infections less likely as well.
Learn More About General Dental Care Treatment
For more information about preventing and treating root canal infections, be sure to contact our advanced dental care practice today. The entire team here looks forward to your visit and helping you have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.
