Has your dentist told you that you need root canal treatment? If so, you’re not alone. It’s a pretty common procedure.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that restores and lengthens the life of a tooth by removing damaged tissue from inside the root canals.
When you start treatment, your dentist will remove decay from your tooth, and start root canal treatment, removing the infected or damaged pulp via a small access hole.
The root canal is cleaned, disinfected and sealed with a filling so that it doesn’t get reinfected.
If you face having to undergo root canal treatment, often your dentist will recommend one of two choices: root canal treatment, or tooth extraction.
Understanding your choices and their impact on your future dental health and lifestyle is important. Read on to learn why nothing is as good as your natural tooth, and for simple tips on taking care of your whole mouth health…
Start early
Tooth decay is a food related disease that damages teeth. It’s hard to believe that a staggering 47% of children develop signs of tooth decay before they start school 1. That’s why dental care should begin as soon as a child’s first tooth appears. That way you can help with the prevention of decay and avoid further issues later on in life. Setting up your children’s effective oral hygiene routines now can greatly assist them in the future by reducing their need for extensive dental services.
Brush
It’s important to brush twice a day and floss daily. And change your toothbrush at least three to four times a year, or if you find it easier, use an electric toothbrush. In addition to flossing and brushing, chew sugar-free gum after meals and rinse your mouth with mouthwash. That way you can prevent gum disease and decay.
Don’t smoke
Tobacco stains teeth and increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. If you smoke, consider quitting.
Eat smart
A healthy diet is essential to healthy teeth and gums. A balanced diet of wholefoods; grains, dairy, nuts, fruits and vegetables, will provide less impact to your teeth than foods that are processed and full of sugar. Always opt for the healthier choice, especially omega 3 fats, found in oily fish such as salmon, as it may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of gum disease.
Avoid sugar
Sugar produces acid that erodes tooth enamel, meaning that your teeth may decay. Lollies and sugary soft drinks are a big no, as is fruit juice, as it’s loaded with hidden sugar.
Almost all tooth decay and gum disease can be prevented with good oral hygiene. It only takes a few minutes, twice a day to brush and floss your teeth. That’s not a lot in return for a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth.
If you find yourself needing root canal treatment, we can help relieve your tooth pain and recapture your perfect smile. Simply call Somerset Dental Care on 1300 707 046.
1. Department of Human Services 2007 Victorian Child Health and Wellbeing Survey Technical Report, 2006. State-wide Outcomes for Children Branch, Office for Children, Department of Human Services, Victorian Government, Melbourne.
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