Not Everyone With Tooth Pain Needs a Root Canal

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.

Pain from tooth decay

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.

Grinding the teeth

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:

• Loosening of the teeth
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Fractured teeth
• Worn-down teeth

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.

Preventing the need for a root canal

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.

Visit a dentist today

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.

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