Root canal treatment plays a pivotal role in helping you maintain your beautiful, natural smile. Modern root canal techniques help restore teeth after deep decay or traumatic damage that threatens the health and “life” of a tooth.
Still, as with any dental procedure, it’d be great to avoid the need for a root canal in the first place. And that means taking steps to protect your teeth and avoid potential damage.
Top-rated root canal treatment providers in New York City, the team at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC wants every patient to enjoy optimal oral health. In this post, learn five simple steps you can take to optimize your oral health and reduce your need for root canals in the future.
Brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day is important for reducing your risks of all kinds of oral health problems, including cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, and follow these simple tips to get the most from your brushing habit.
Many people are tempted to skip flossing, but that’s a poor decision. Flossing gets rid of plaque and bacteria your toothbrush can miss, significantly reducing your risk of more serious oral health problems. Follow these steps to make sure each tooth is properly flossed. Having trouble getting your technique down? Water flossers are fine, too.
Twice-yearly dental exams and checkups provide a deep cleaning for your teeth and gums, getting rid of sticky plaque and hardened tartar deposits, along with the bacteria they contain. Eliminating bacteria reduces your risks of both tooth decay and gum disease, while preserving overall tooth and gum health.
Checkups also give your dentist a chance to spot and treat problems early, helping you avoid root canals and other more invasive (and more costly) treatments. Plus, your hygienist can provide you with tips to improve your home-care routine.
Most of us know to avoid sugary snacks and drinks, but it’s also wise to avoid sticky foods that leave sugary particles behind. Limit or avoid hard foods, too, to prevent tiny cracks that can lead to deep decay.
When it comes to beverages, avoid anything sugary. Ideally, stick with water to hydrate your mouth and flush out tiny food particles and harmful bacteria. Carry a water bottle with you so you always have a way to refresh — especially after meals.
If you play a sport, wearing a mouthguard helps prevent cracks, fractures, and other problems that can come from sports-related accidents and impacts. Mouthguards are also important if you grind your teeth at night. Grinding can damage tooth enamel, increasing your risk of decay, and it can weaken your tooth’s structure, too.
If you have any symptoms of tooth problems, like tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swollen gums, or persistent bad breath, don’t delay treatment. Scheduling an evaluation right away can help stop problems in their tracks, preventing the need for a root canal in the future.
Although following these tips can help reduce your need for root canal in the future, there’s no way to completely eliminate your risk. Bottom line: If you have significant tooth pain, sensitivity, or gum swelling, it’s important to seek care with our team right away.
To learn more, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC today.
