Root canals are a common dental procedure that can be used to save an infected tooth from being extracted. Brushing and flossing regularly, drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy diet can reduce tooth decay. By implementing these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of needing a root canal procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure performed by a dentist in which the root of an infected tooth is removed – the procedure usually takes about 1 hour to complete and can be painful for a short period after the procedure as your tooth and gums heal.
Preventing Root Canals
There are several preventive steps that you can take to prevent root canals. Most of these steps involve eating a healthy diet to ensure you keep your teeth healthy and free of decay.
Regular Dental Checkups
Scheduling regular dental checkups is the best way to prevent root canals. If the dentist finds something minor, they can address it with a filling before it ever escalates to needing a root canal.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are plastic coatings that can be applied to your teeth. These coatings act as a barrier to protect your teeth from sugar that sticks to the grooves and caries them. Dental sealants are an inexpensive way to keep your teeth protected from decay.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is what keeps our teeth and bones healthy. If we do not have enough vitamin D in our system, absorption of these minerals into our bones and teeth is inhibited, which can lead to tooth decay.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth removes plaque and food particles that can lead to tooth decay. Brush your teeth at least twice per day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to keep your teeth healthy.
Avoid Hard Biting
Hard biting can cause tooth decay and wear down your teeth over time. If you bite hard on something like a pen or pencil, this can wear away the enamel on the surface of your teeth which will increase the risk of tooth decay.
Drink Water
Drinking water is one of the simplest ways to prevent tooth decay – water helps to wash away bacteria and acid that builds up on your teeth. This is especially important if you eat or drink acidic foods, which can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth decay.
Eat Right
It’s no surprise that what you eat has an impact on your oral health. Eating a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits is important for the prevention of tooth decay. Foods that are high in sugar are especially damaging to teeth and can lead to an increased incidence of tooth decay and root canal procedures.
Schedule an Appointment with a Dentist in Boynton Beach
If you live in the Boynton Beach area and need to schedule a checkup, contact Eriks Dental Group today. We are a trusted dentist office that provides a full range of dental services for the whole family. Our staff is dedicated to your oral health and will use the most modern equipment and materials to provide you with the information you need. Contact Eriks Dental Group to schedule an appointment for your family today.