Albertville, AL
If an average person hears the term “root canal”, it might send shivers down their spine. Forget what you might know about this procedure; in modern dentistry, thanks to advances in technology and technique, a root canal is more convenient and comfortable than it’s ever been. Dentists and endodontists perform more than 15 million root canals per year. That said, the best course of action for any health issue is to practice prevention so that a corrective procedure never is needed in the first place. Today on the blog, your dentists in Albertville go through some of the reasons that a root canal might be needed and, more importantly, how to prevent needing this procedure at all.
When do people need a root canal?
The interior of your tooth is soft tissue known as dental pulp that contains the sensitive blood vessels and connective tissue, as well as the dental nerve. A root canal is recommended for any tooth that has suffered damage to that interior. Such damage can develop due to an injury or, more commonly, as a consequence of an advanced area of decay that penetrates the exterior of a tooth.
How does decay penetrate to the dental pulp?
An untreated cavity or area of tooth decay grows, and the accumulating bacteria and plaque can excrete acids that wear away your tooth enamel—the protective outer layer of your tooth structure. Certain symptoms can be indicative of an issue with your enamel, such as a sudden, heightened sensitivity to hot and cold. The longer your tooth enamel is allowed to erode, the greater the likelihood that the cavity-causing bacteria infiltrates the enamel and infects the interior of the tooth.
By this point, receiving a filling to repair the damage isn’t enough. The decay may advance to the central chamber of the tooth, infecting that soft interior tissue and progressing all the way to the root itself. From there, you might start experiencing severe pain. That pain could indicate a dental abscess, a potentially serious infection that develops at the tip of the tooth root. From there, the infected material can filter into your bloodstream, causing other major consequences including organ failure or life-threatening sepsis.
How do I know if I might need a root canal?
In addition to significant pain, other symptoms that can be indicators of a problem that requires a root canal include:
- A foul taste or discharge in the mouth
- Your tooth suddenly becoming discolored
- A toothache while chewing, or that appears to emanate from deep within the bone
- Swelling in the gums
How can I prevent a root canal?
It starts with good dental hygiene. That means brushing twice per day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist every six months for a check-up that includes an oral examination and a professional dental cleaning in Albertville. You also can avoid habits and behaviors that can compromise the structural strength of your teeth. These include biting down on hard candies and lollipops or using your teeth as tools. You also can make certain lifestyle changes, such as cutting out use of tobacco or limiting your intake of sugar or highly acidic foods and drinks.
Root canals in Albertville, Boaz and Guntersville in Alabama
At Wall Street Dentistry, Drs. Josh Conley and Jonathan Renfroe can perform a root canal to repair even a badly damaged tooth and prevent tooth loss. Has the pain come on fast? You might be experiencing an abscess that warrants a dental emergency. To find out more about root canals, our program of preventive care, or any of the other services we offer, make an appointment at our office in Albertville today. Just call (256) 878-0525 or contact us online.
