If you imagine a root canal, you likely think about pain and discomfort. As a result, many patients wish to avoid them. While root canals are no more painful than other dental procedures, they can seem scary. Luckily, there are ways to avoid them. With a good oral hygiene routine, you can reduce your chances of needing a root canal.
Embrace a Solid Oral Hygiene Routine
One of the best ways to avoid a root canal is to have a great oral care routine. This is because good oral hygiene reduces your risks of major dental issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease.
A good daily routine consists of brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. These two steps alone can remove plaque and create a healthy oral environment. Try adding a toothpaste with fluoride to help strengthen your enamel. If you can prevent tooth decay, you can avoid a root canal.
Mastering the Art of Brushing
Of course, brushing your teeth is a valuable part of your oral care. However, you need to make sure that you use the proper technique. When you brush, you should use gentle, circular motions. This helps break up plaque and protect your enamel. Additionally, you need to brush along the gum line.
It is crucial to avoid using too much pressure or a hard-bristle toothbrush. These can damage the enamel and cause gum recession.
Partnering with Your Dentist
Even if you have a great oral health routine, it is essential to visit your dentist regularly. During these visits, your dentist can look for early signs of tooth decay. If they catch tooth decay or infection in its earlier stages, you can avoid a root canal. Instead, you may only need a simple dental filling.
Additionally, routine dental exams and cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup. This helps to reduce your chances of invasive treatment later on.
Cutting Back on Sweet Treats
If you have a sweet tooth, you may need to evaluate your diet. Eating excessive amounts of sugar can increase your risk of tooth decay. Once you have tooth decay, it can lead to the need for a root canal. Therefore, you should limit sugary snacks, sodas, and juices.
When you do eat sugar, you should brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water afterward. Doing this can help reduce the exposure of your teeth to sugar. Additionally, it will reduce the food source for harmful bacteria.
Play It Safe
Playing sports can increase your risk of dental injuries. Unfortunately, dental trauma can lead to a root canal if they are serious. To prevent serious injury, wear a mouthguard while participating in high-impact activities. You can even talk to your dentist about a custom mouthguard, which provides the best protection for your teeth.
Quick Action, Effective Prevention
To avoid a root canal, you should see your dentist quickly if you have a dental issue. Dental trauma, such as a broken tooth, can expose the nerves in your tooth. This can increase your likelihood of infection and needing a root canal. Immediate treatment can reduce your risk of a root canal.