Are There Any Alternatives To Root Canals?
Posted on: 13 July 2023
A root canal treatment starts with a medical professional removing the pulp inside a tooth. After this, they'll clean the hollow interior before filling and sealing it. Finally, it's common for the medical professional to install a crown or a filling to strengthen the tooth. Root canals are routine procedures. That means the chances for complications are low, so much so that the National Library of Medicine mentions reported success rates of up to 86 to 98 percent.
When Do Dentists Recommend Root Canal Treatment?
Dentists don't go to recommending root canals right away. That would be premature because the inflamed pulp can still be saved in the early stages. Unfortunately, the inflamed pulp can pass a point of no return, meaning it needs to come out before the situation worsens. Some studies say lingering sensitivity to heat or cold suggests it's too late to save the pulp. Still, you'll want a dentist to check out the situation so you can be sure. Don't assume everything is alright if the sensitivity stops. The problem will remain even once the nerve tissue is too dead to send signals. Inflamed pulp can't get better once it's past the point of no return.
Why Is Root Canal Treatment Better Than the Alternatives?
The main alternative to root canal treatment would be removing the tooth. Nowadays, you have various replacement options. For example, you can get an implant. Similarly, you can get a bridge or partial dentures. Still, most people would prefer keeping the tooth, which is the intended outcome of root canal treatment. On top of this, tooth removal is more painful, complicated, and time-consuming, meaning it's reserved for when the tooth is beyond saving.
Of course, you can also let the problem stick around, which is much worse than either treatment method. Bacteria can spread to the rest of your mouth. As a result, you might have to deal with infections in your gums, jaws, and other teeth. Even worse, the bacteria can spread to the rest of your body. Examples include but aren't limited to the brain, the neck, and the heart.
What Can You Do to Prevent the Need For Root Canal Treatment?
You can save yourself from needing root canals by practicing a simple routine. Essentially, you practice good oral hygiene while cutting your consumption of sweet foods and beverages. Furthermore, you visit your dentist regularly so they can catch anything you might've missed. Above all else, you need to take your oral health seriously so you won't let down your guard at any point.
For more information about root canals, reach out to a local clinic.
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