A root canal is a procedure used to save a tooth with a compromised pulp chamber. The procedure involves using a series of files to clean out the contents of the pulp chamber. It is a straightforward procedure that typically takes about an hour to complete.
A root canal can be used to treat:
Root canals are one of the pricier treatments performed by dentists. Taking good care of your teeth reduces the odds of needing one in the future. Here are some simple things patients can do to avoid having to get a root canal:
Good oral hygiene is the first step towards keeping teeth healthy. Tooth decay is one of the main reasons why people end up needing a root canal. Oral bacteria convert food particles left behind after meals into acids that damage tooth enamel.
Over time, holes — called cavities — begin to develop on teeth surfaces. If left untreated, these holes will keep expanding until they reach the pulp chamber. Once that occurs, the soft tissues in the pulp chamber are exposed to the bacteria and acids in the mouth. The person will experience excruciating toothaches at this point, and the tooth will eventually become infected if left untreated.
Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth at least two times a day, preferably after meals. Dentists also recommend flossing at least once each day. Use a mouthwash to give teeth an additional layer of protection.
Trauma to a tooth can lead to a need for a root canal if the damage reaches the pulp chamber. Dentists recommend wearing a mouthguard to reduce the odds of this occurring when participating in contact sports. People who grind their teeth due to bruxism can protect their enamel by wearing a nightguard before going to bed.
Teeth need nutrients like calcium, phosphate and fluoride to be healthy. Dentists recommend eating a balanced diet that contains these nutrients. Dairy products and green vegetables are a great source of calcium and most public water supply systems are fluoridated.
Regular visits to the dentist allow patients to get preventative treatments as needed, thereby keeping their teeth healthy. For example, teeth cleanings are used to protect teeth from decay and dental sealants offer additional protection.
Regular visits to the dentist also provide an opportunity for developing issues to be detected early on. Such problems can then be treated with less invasive procedures. For example, the early stages of tooth decay can be treated with a filling. The more advanced stages require a root canal to save the tooth.
Call or visit our Huntsville clinic if you are dealing with a damaged tooth that requires a root canal. It usually only takes a single visit to the dentist to get the relief you need.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbydesignhuntsville.com or call Smiles by Design, PC at (256) 660-3233 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Huntsville, AL.
A broken tooth can result from severe decay, cracks, or trauma. Continue reading to learn whether a dentist will recommend a root canal during the repair process. A broken tooth means a portion of the tooth’s structure above the gum line has come off. You should schedule a dentist appointment immediately after the incident to…
Root canal therapy is a procedure that allows dentists to save severely decayed, damaged, or infected teeth. The root canal procedure involves going to the pulp chamber of a tooth to remove the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues there. This brings an end to infections and protects against them. It also stops any pain…
A root canal is a procedure that can both relieve pain and prevent tooth loss, and nowadays, root canals are a common and painless procedure. If your tooth becomes injured or infected, bacteria can build up the inside of the tooth where the pulp and nerves reside. Left untreated, pain and sensitivity may become severe,…
When the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes irritated or infected, root canal treatment is required. The irritation or infection could be severe decay, multiple dental procedures on the teeth, a bad dental crown, or breakage. Furthermore, even if a tooth has no obvious chips or breaks, an injury to the tooth…
Advances in dentistry have made it possible to replace missing teeth with dental implants that are more similar to natural teeth than other teeth replacement options. Many people lose teeth due to gum disease, decay, and injury. Losing teeth often lead to numerous negative consequences. It can affect your smile, weaken your jawbone, and alter…
There are many benefits to choosing Invisalign® clear aligners over metal braces for teeth straightening, including the ease of cleaning and routine maintenance. While clear aligners are considered more aesthetically pleasing than traditional braces, failing to take proper care of the trays can lead to discoloration or a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Fortunately,…