How to Prevent (Another) Root Canal

Good oral health is part of overall good health. Your teeth allow you to speak clearly, chew thoroughly, and they keep your jawbone healthy as well. No one likes the idea of having a root canal, but most people will get the procedure if it means saving a tooth. 

Dr. Robert Scott Nance is an expert in performing root canals. If you need one, he can do it as quickly and as painlessly as possible. However, Dr. Nance and his staff would prefer you never need another root canal, as you surely would, too. In this post, we offer tips and advice to help you avoid the need for a root canal. 

A root canal, explained

When someone says “root canal,” you probably immediately think of the procedure. But, “root canal” describes part of the anatomy of your tooth. 

Inside each one of your teeth, there’s a small tunnel, or canal, filled with pulp made up of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. The root canal connects the pulp of your tooth to the blood vessels and nerves in your jaw. It keeps your teeth connected to your body. 

If the pulp in your root canal is damaged from something like tooth decay or a broken tooth, it can become inflamed or infected. As you can imagine, because the pulp is filled with nerves, this can be very painful and sensitive. Dr. Nance removes the damaged pulp and clears away infection during root canal treatment — the procedure most people think of when they hear the term “root canal.” 

How root canal treatment works

Infected and damaged pulp in your root canal can’t be repaired, but it can be replaced. When you have root canal treatment, Dr. Nance drills a small hole in your affected tooth so that he can get to the root canal, where the damaged pulp is located. 

Then, she removes all of the infected pulp, and flushes out the root canals with a special solution to remove any remaining infection or debris. After that, she fills the canals and pulp chamber with a biocompatible material, saving the structure of your tooth.

Once he has accessed your root canal, he removes all of the infected or damaged pulp, and uses a special solution to remove any debris or remaining infected tissue. Then, he refills the root canal with a biocompatible material. The process saves the structure of your tooth. 

Here’s how to avoid another root canal

The best way to prevent the need for root canal treatment is to practice outstanding oral hygiene. Here are our best tips and tricks. 

The basics: brush and floss 

You already know what you need to do. On the recommendation of The American Dental Association (ADA), you should brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Make sure that at least once a day, you give your mouth a full, spa-like treatment by brushing thoroughly, flossing carefully, and using mouthwash. 

As simple as these tools are, brushing and flossing are the most effective way to avoid tooth decay, inflammation, and infection. Use a soft-bristled brush, and pay attention to your gums as well as your teeth. Stiff bristles and overly-vigorous bruising can cause damage to your enamel and make it easier for bacteria to cause problems. 

Your diet matters

Bacteria loves sugar, and sugary drinks and foods allow bacteria in your mouth to flourish and thrive. Bacteria is the first step toward tooth decay, and tooth decay can easily lead to root canal treatment. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables over sugary snacks whenever you can. If you do indulge in sweets, drink some water and brush your teeth as soon as you can. 

Drink more water

A dry mouth is a haven for bacteria. You need plenty of saliva to keep your teeth healthy, and the best way to produce it is to drink enough water. Try keeping a bottle of water at hand, and sip it throughout the day. Harmful bacteria will be washed away, and your teeth will be healthier. 

Take care of your tongue

When bacteria is in your mouth, it clings to your teeth and forms plaque. Plaque can also form on your tongue. When you brush and floss, give your tongue a gentle scrub too.

Now is the best time 

Perhaps you haven’t been as vigilant in protecting your oral health as you could be. The best time to start is right now! Along with the good habits we’ve suggested here, you should see Dr. Nance twice per year for a cleaning and checkup. That way, he can spot any problems before root canal treatment is necessary. 

Schedule an appointment today! We have offices in both Statesville and Hickory, North Carolina and we’ll be happy to see you at either one!