How to avoid root canal

Can a tooth that needs a root canal heal itself? Unfortunately, the infected pulp of the tooth will not heal on its own and requires a root canal to properly be treated.

Root canals are performed when bacteria, introduced through a cavity or break, compromise the nerves located inside the tooth. The bacteria cause an infection, which eventually kills the nerves. But root canals can be avoided, Teitelbaum says, in cases where the nerves are not yet infected.

Extraction. One of the most popular alternatives to root canals is extraction of the offending tooth and the replacement with a bridge, implant or partial denture. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), this doesn’t compare with the advantages of saving the natural tooth if possible.

The only option apart from a root canal is extraction of the tooth. If you do not undergo treatment or get the tooth removed, then the consequences can be severe. If left untreated, the bacterial infection can spread to the jaw, brain, blood and rest of the body.

After a root canal, it may only last another 10-15 years. However, there are ways to help your tooth last for the rest of your life. You can have it crowned, which will add extra strength and durability to the tooth.

A successful root canal can cause mild pain for a few days. This is temporary, and should go away on its own as long as you practice good oral hygiene. You should see your dentist for a follow-up if the pain lasts longer than three days.

NerdWallet estimates that the national average costs for root canals are $762 for a front tooth, $879 for a premolar, and $1,111 for a molar. The region of the country in which you live may also determine the cost. If you live closer to the coasts, expect a price tag higher than the national average, says NerdWallet.

The cost of root canals varies depending on the tooth and whether it is being treated by a general dentist or an endodontist. Molars have more canals that need to be filled, so they are more expensive, and endodontists typically charge more due to their specialty training.

Dentists usually perform root canals on children ages 12 and older. However, root canals are sometimes needed for younger children depending on the damage to the tooth and which tooth needs a root canal procedure.

Root canal is a more convenient and healthy choice.

Finally, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling, after which it will look and function as a perfectly normal tooth! Compared to tooth extraction, which generally causes more pain and involves more follow-up visits, root canal therapy is easy and time-saving.

Most root canals can be done in one to two appointments. The first appointment is the procedure itself when the infected pulp is removed. The second (and maybe third) appointment is when the root canal gets cleaned and filled with a crown or other filling to prevent infections.

Why do root canals sometimes take two visits? Root canal treatment may require two visits to your dentist depending on the tooth. The first visit will focus on removing infected or damaged tissue in your tooth. This requires concentration and should be done with care.

When to eat after a root canal

Most dentists will recommend waiting to eat until your teeth and gums no longer feel numb after the root canal. This usually lasts a few hours. It’s important not to eat immediately after a root canal because your gums, and sometimes your tongue, are somewhat numb.

Chewy foods

After having a root canal treatment performed, the goal is to give the area time to heal. That means not doing anything that would irritate it. For that reason, a person should avoid any kind of chewy food.

Antibiotics, a medicine to treat bacterial infections, are not effective in treating root canal infections.

Pain. It is normal to have some discomfort for a few days after your root canal. If you have severe pain that lingers, though, or if your tooth feels better and then starts hurting again, you may be experiencing a root canal failure.

Your dentist may be responsible for a bad root canal treatment. It ultimately depends on why your root canal failed. If your dentist did not provide an acceptable standard of treatment or live up to their duty-of-care mandate, you might incur unnecessary pain and suffering.