When a tooth is infected, this means a filling is not enough to bring relief. Instead, we could recommend an endodontic treatment known as a root canal. This could help prevent tooth loss and bring relief to your smile. In today’s blog, your Austin, MN, dentists talk about how we help preserve smiles with a root canal.
How Infections Cause Tooth Loss
An infection means that bacteria had come into contact with the pulp in the center of your tooth. The pulp is a collection of living tissues that oversees the flow of blood and nutrients to and from the tooth through the root canals. The resulting infection, which could occur due to untreated cavities or chips or cracks to the enamel, could eventually kill the pulp. The tooth then dies and either falls out eventually or is removed to prevent infection from reaching other parts of your smile. However, an endodontic treatment could help prevent the loss of your tooth, and could bring instant relief.
Root Canal Treatment
Symptoms of an infected tooth includes tooth sensitivity, toothaches, headaches, jaw pain, swelling, or even a discharge from the tooth. When we examine your smile, we will diagnose the cause and extent of your issue. If you need a root canal then we will administer a local anesthetic, or possibly sedation for our more anxious patients. We then open the tooth to remove all tissues and then clean the interior. We next add a special filling material and cap the tooth with a custom-made dental crown. The crown is designed to not only protect the remaining structure, but also offer a lifelike appearance and a durable chewing surface.
Preventing Future Infections
To help prevent future cases of decay or infection, be sure you cut back on the consumption of sugary and starch foods and drinks. Try to take time to brush in the morning and again at night for at least two minutes each session. When you brush, use a fluoride toothpaste, which strengthens the outer enamel. Flossing is also crucial as this removes what is beyond the reach of your toothbrush’s bristles. Finally, make time to see our team for a routine exam and a dental cleaning every six months. If you schedule one now, you can start 2022 with a healthier and brighter smile, and also use your leftover 2021 dental insurance benefits before they expire at the end of December.
Talk To Your Austin, MN Dentist About Endodontic Dentistry
We would like to help enjoy treatment that restores the health, function, and beauty of your smile. To find out more about treating an infected or abscessed tooth with an endodontic procedure, then contact your Austin, MN, dentists, Dr. Potach and Dr. Mitchell, by calling 507-437-6312.
