Let’s face it, a root canal has been and always will be a much-dreaded procedure. Though the days of root canals being a painful process are long gone, chances are that a person still wishes to avoid the procedure. Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen of Phoenix Endodontic Group performs this effective treatment on a regular basis, and has the following to offer when patients ask how to prevent needing a root canal.
Good dental hygiene and care is the best line of defense when it comes to root canals. It is always suggested that patients brush and floss daily and visit their dentist for regular check-ups both for optimal oral hygiene, and to catch any potential tooth problem in its early stage, Dr. Allen states. Detecting an issue early on can result in a much better chance of saving the tooth. While routine brushing and flossing is a great start, there is no one specific tip that can prevent the need for a patient to have a root canal. The nerves in teeth “go bad” and “die” for different reasons, sometimes with pain and other symptoms and other times with no symptoms at all, says Dr. Allen.
If your general dentist has detected a problem, you may wonder if there is an alternative to a root canal. In lieu of a root canal to treat tooth pain and infection, a patient can elect to have their tooth extracted, place a bone graft and then a dental implant (which then has to be restored), Dr. Allen advises. “If you took a poll, most patients would opt to keep their natural teeth as long as possible”, she continues.
Today’s root canals are very different from stories you’ve heard in the past. Advances in technology and treatment methods over the years mean less stress and pain. Most patients report that a root canal is no more uncomfortable than a filling, and recovery time is minimal.
For the best chance of success with your root canal, look to a skillful Endodontist like Dr. Allen at Phoenix Endodontic Group. In her expert hands, you will be out of pain and smiling again in no time!