A root canal is a dental procedure that a dentist uses to save your tooth when it is decayed beyond simply needing a filling. The procedure is used to remove the pulp of the tooth and this is most often done when the pulp is infected or inflamed. The pulp of the tooth can become damaged through repeated dental procedures, an injury to the tooth or extensive decay. The good news is that even if you have pain in a specific tooth, there are many possible causes of the pain beyond needing a root canal.
One of the most common causes of tooth pain is decay in that tooth. If there is a hole in the tooth or a cavity, then harmful bacteria can get in. This is caused by the outer layer of the tooth or the inner layer of the tooth beginning to break down.
The layers of the tooth can break down when sticky or carbohydrate-filled foods remain on the teeth. The mouth’s bacteria turn these foods into acids that slowly break down the layers on the teeth. One sign of a cavity is when that tooth is especially sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks.
Many people grind their teeth every now and then, but if this happens often, it is known as bruxism. Patients often grind their teeth during the night, which means that patients are generally not aware that bruxism is happening. Grinding the teeth can cause several problems that lead to tooth pain, including:
The good news is that a general dentist can fit a patient with a mouthguard. This will protect the teeth when the patient grinds them.
A root canal can be painful for individuals, so preventing it is always a good option. Patients need root canals because of extensive decay in the teeth. However, proper oral hygiene and regular visits to a general dentist can prevent decay. Patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day.
Patients should visit a dentist regularly. The dentist will be able to clean the teeth more thoroughly than the patient would be able to do at home, removing plaque and tartar buildup. The dentist will also perform an examination of the patient’s mouth to determine if there are any cavities. Repairing the teeth early will generally mean a filling or a crown, rather than an entire root canal.
If you are suffering from tooth pain, no matter what type, you should visit a dentist. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be for the dentist to repair your teeth. Visiting a dentist now can help save you time and pain later on. Early intervention can also prevent serious cavities or decay.
Request an appointment here: https://metrosmiles.com or call Metro Smiles Dental at (718) 841-9591 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Most people want to have dental implants right after dental extraction. Replacing the lost tooth is a priority. This can prevent more complications as the mouth heals. Understanding the process of getting implants after dental extraction can help prepare you for your appointment. Here are the details about getting dental implants after a dentist removes…
Peri-implantitis is a painful condition that affects the dental implant site. If left untreated, the consequences are irreversible, so it is important to maintain a checkup schedule with an implant dentist. However, an implant dentist can save your implants, gum tissue, and jawbone without much hassle if caught in its early stages. This article will…
Getting dental implants as a replacement for removable dentures can be a rewarding move. These restorations are stable and lasting. You can smile, laugh, eat, and speak without worrying that they will slip out of your mouth. Here are the benefits of getting dental implants over removable dentures.Dental implants are effective in restoring teeth. Unlike…
People with tooth loss can smile with confidence again, thanks to the help of an implant dentist. Tooth loss can greatly impact a person's quality of life, affecting how they speak, eat, and feel about their smile. Also, tooth loss can eventually lead to bone loss and changes in facial structure. Fortunately, an implant dentist…
Most people want to have dental implants right after dental extraction. Replacing the lost tooth is a priority. This can prevent more complications as the mouth heals. Understanding the process of getting implants after dental extraction can help prepare you for your appointment. Here are the details about getting dental implants after a dentist removes…
Peri-implantitis is a painful condition that affects the dental implant site. If left untreated, the consequences are irreversible, so it is important to maintain a checkup schedule with an implant dentist. However, an implant dentist can save your implants, gum tissue, and jawbone without much hassle if caught in its early stages. This article will…