What Is A Root Canal And How Can You Prevent Needing One
A root canal is a medical procedure in which the root of the tooth is removed. A root canal may be necessary for a number of reasons, including poor dental hygiene. If you are in need of a root canal, your dentist will let you know. There are signs, such as a rotten or discolored tooth, a cracked tooth, a missing or broken cavity that went untreated, pain in the tooth or the gum below the tooth, or needing multiple cavity fillings in the same tooth over and over again. If you need a root canal, you may want to know what this procedure entails and how you can prevent a future procedure such as this one. Read on for helpful information regarding root canals.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure in which the root of the tooth has rotten away, but the tooth itself is still in fair shape that it can stay in the mouth. The root of the tooth and the pulp of the tooth is drilled out using a dental drill, then the root is removed from the gums. The tooth itself is filled in and the tooth remains in place. This is a nice way to remove a dental concern, while still keeping your natural tooth in place and skipping the need for a tooth extraction and a dental implant or a bridge to replace the missing tooth. You are usually put under a general anesthetic for this procedure and may feel some pain or swelling afterward. If you continue to have swelling, pain, or bleeding a few days after your procedure, it could be an infection and needs to be addressed with your dentist.
How Can You Prevent The Need For A Root Canal?
Prevent needing a root canal by taking better care of your teeth. You need to make sure you are brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing your teeth daily as well. You should be going to the dentist for routine checkups and cleanings, not just when you notice an issue with your teeth. These cleanings are important, as they not only provide you with extra protection for your teeth, but they can also spot issues or concerns before they become major problems for you.
If you have been feeling pain in your teeth or gums, you have a crack in your tooth, or you have had a filling fall out, you could be in need of a root canal. Make an appointment and discuss root canals with the dentist.