Even if you don’t have a fear of the dentist the thought of needing root canal treatment can be daunting. It is one of the most invasive procedures you can have in your mouth. However, it is an effective way to save your tooth.
But the good news is that there are other options you can try before resorting to a root canal. The key is to find a dentist that practices a holistic approach, such as this dentist Toowong.
What Is Root Canal?
When a cavity is left a hole can develop through your tooth and into the roots. This can then become infected. When the pulp inside the tooth is infected it needs to be removed in order to save the tooth. It can occur when you’ve failed to look after a tooth properly, or you’ve cracked a tooth, have gum disease, or even too many dental treatments on one tooth.
The pulp, which contains the nerves, is removed. The area is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before being sealed. You can then have a crown or bridge fitted to restore the look of your teeth.
Alternatives To Root Canal
The simplest solution to avoiding root canal is to have the tooth extracted. However, this is not generally a good option. While it does remove the issue it then creates a space in your mouth. This will allow your other teeth to move slightly, potentially weakening them and creating further dental issues in the future.
This is not an option that most dentists will recommend.
- Pulp Capping
Your dentist may suggest pulp capping. In this instance, the dentist will use a special sealant to close the entrance to the pulp. Of course, they will first need to drill an additional hole and spray disinfectant inside the tooth to kill any bacteria. You’ll also need a course of antibiotics.
The sealant will then prevent bacteria from getting in. However, this process is not always successful, although it does delay the expense of root canal.
- Bridge Dentures
After root canal, you may need to have a crown or bridge fitted to support what is left of the tooth. Using a bridge denture is a similar approach except that you’ve opted to have the tooth removed. In effect, the dentist will create a tooth that fits into the gap created by your removed tooth. This tooth is fastened to a bride that sits over the teeth on each side of the gap.
The new tooth is not fastened into your mouth, it is simply attached to the bridge to provide support for your other teeth and help you retain your smile.
- Implants
Another, slightly more expensive option, after extraction, is to have an implant. This is when the dentist creates a tooth for the gap in your mouth and effectively bolts it to your jaw. It will look like your tooth and need to be cleaned in the same way, but may not be as strong.
There are options to avoid root canal but, by far the best option is regular dental visits to protect your teeth from harm in the first place.