Many efforts have been made by the dental community to improve the overall dental health of the society. Despite this, many people are still suffering from dental health complications that could be avoided. One of these conditions is cavities or what is known as tooth decay. In case you suspect that you are developing cavities, here are a few important things that you should know about getting Root Canals.
The development of cavities
Cavities are basically the product of poor dental hygiene. They start forming when a person is eating foods that are too sugary or starchy. The sugars and starch from food form a coating known as plaque on the teeth. This plaque is acted on by the bacteria that live in the mouth forming an acid. Normally, we use toothpaste that has a high alkali content to neutralize this acid in the mouth. However, when a person does not brush their teeth regularly, the acids start corroding the teeth, and this leads to the tooth sensitivity.
If this corrosion does not stop, it wears out the enamel and reaches the dentin and consequently the pulp cavity. When the corrosion has reached the pulp cavity, it leads to the area being open and exposed to bacterial infection. We experience a toothache when the now exposed pulp cavity gets a bacterial infection and the tissue starts decaying.
Dealing with cavities
Dealing with cavities depends on how deeply they have affected the tooth. For instance, if you are just having sensitivity, toothpaste with calcium will do the trick. However, if you have gaping holes in the tooth or are already experiencing toothache, you will need a root canal.
The root canal procedure
This process starts with a patient getting sedated. The dentist then uses local anesthesia on the tooth to be treated to numb pain. A dental dam is used to keep saliva out of the working area. The dentist gains access to the pulp cavity and removed all the decaying tissue, leaving a gaping hole. They then sterilize and seal the tooth. A crown is added for protection.
These are the important things you need to know about Root Canals and how to avoid them. Dr. George Braithwaite DMD is one of the best people to go to for a root canal.
