If you've ever experienced an extremely painful tooth ache you probably were't surprised to find out you needed a root canal.
But what exactly is a root canal? It is a procedure that treats the inside of your tooth. If you have an untreated chip or cracked(or other trauma), it can expose the pulp which then can become inflamed and infected. Thus the pulp inside of your tooth becomes damaged. Left untreated leads to the pain you'd feel with a toothache. This left further untreated can result in an abscess.
When your dentists performs a root canal the damaged pulp is removed entirely from the inside of the tooth. After it is removed, your tooth will be cleaned and disinfected and sealed. Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or a filling for protection.
Modern root canal treatment is similar to having a routine filling and may be completed in one or two appointments depending on the condition of the tooth. Contrary to popular belief, root canals relieve the pain that an infected tooth is causing. The procedure isn't as grim as it is made out to be.
For more information on root canals, contact Dr. James Yankowskas and make an appointmentat (978) 649-7773 or visit our website.
A modern take on proper oral hygiene goes beyond 'brushing twice a day' and 'avoiding sugar'. Paired with a proper oral care routine a diet with foods beneficial to your teethes health is imperative if you plan on keeping your teeth long term.
Research indicates that antioxidants and other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts may strengthen immunity and improve the body's ability to fight bacteria and inflammation, all of which can help protect the teeth and gums. And some foods and dietary habits even have distinct effects on the mouth's ability to handle cavity-causing bacteria spikes.
Vitamin C, and other nutrients from fruits and vegetables help protect gums and other tissues from cell damage and bacterial infection.
Fresh cranberries, interrupt the bonding of oral bacteria before they can form damaging plaque.
Folic acid, found in leafy greens(deltadentalins.com).
Water is also a great agent in the fight for oral health! Water is as effective as mouthwash at swishing away stuck particles and residue from teeth. It also keeps your gums hydrated while stimulating saliva – a great defense against bacteria.
It is possible to eat your way to a cleaner mouth. So try these everyday foods to maintain your oral hygiene.