How Can I Avoid a Future Root Canal Procedure?

Here’s How You Can Prevent Dental Damage

Have you or someone you know ever needed root canal therapy? Chances are, the answer is yes.

Root canal therapy is a pretty common treatment performed to essentially “save” a diseased tooth that has been affected by deep decay or trauma/injury. But, can root canal treatment be avoided?

Well, in many cases it can’t be completely avoided, but in most cases it can be prevented. Hey – there’s nothing wrong with root canal treatment, it helps patients to keep their natural tooth! Nevertheless, a tooth that is alive and well is always better than a tooth that requires treatment due to damage or infection.

Here’s what you can do to protect your teeth and prevent a need for endodontic therapy:

1. Probably the most obvious: care for your mouth!
   Sticking to a proper oral care routine (which includes brushing twice daily, flossing once, and seeing your dentist for routine exams and cleanings) will play a big role in decay prevention. The healthier and cleaner your mouth is, the lower your risk for decay penetrating through your tooth’s layers and causing problems. In addition to this, repeated dental procedures pose a risk to the health and strength of your tooth – so working towards avoiding the need for restorative work in general is a smart idea.
2. Avoid biting down on hard foods or objects.
   Biting down on hard materials can lead to unexpected fractures or cracks in the teeth. Your teeth may have been able to handle excessive force for all of these years, but you never know when an accident will decide to strike. A break in the tooth creates an access for bacteria and infection, or trauma can sever a nerve and kill it. Ouch! This is when root canal treatment is often required.
3. Wear a mouth guard if you have a teeth grinding issue.
   Some patients have a habit of grinding their teeth together, especially while they sleep when they may be unaware they’re even doing it. If you think you may have a problem with bruxism, see your dentist about getting a custom fitted night guard to protect your teeth from wear and potentially significant damage.
4. Wear a sport guard if you play.
   If you engage in competitive physical activity or sport, be smart and wear a sport guard! Some of the worst dental injuries can occur in athletes, so always protect yourself.

By sticking to these important guidelines, you’ll be doing pretty much everything you can to prevent a potential root canal treatment in the future!

If you think you may have fractured your tooth, or if you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity in a localized area, don’t wait any longer to see a professional. Your tooth may be able to be filled or treated before it’s too late. Our Hunstville dentists are always happy to help!