Top Tips on Preventing a Root Canal Infection

Top Tips on Preventing a Root Canal Infection

Top Tips on Preventing a Root Canal InfectionRoot canal infection is a common dental problem around the world and the first thing that anyone suffering from this problem is a root filling. But, according to Dr. Per Rehnberg, CEO of Snö Dental, there is definitely a problem with overtreatment, and Root Canal is one of the treatments that has become far too common as there are often many better and less severe options.

Root Canal Treatment can result in a loss of tooth substance, which means it is not as strong as a tooth that has not been treated. A root filled tooth is also more prone to fracture, which is why it normally needs a crown to protect it better.

“We believe that root canal filling is the absolute last thing you should consider for your teeth and that, where possible, everything should be done to ensure natural teeth are kept vital,” says the doctor. But there are ways you can also prevent root canal infections. These include smart oral hygiene practices and sound preventative care among others. Below, Dr. Per has listed his top nine preventative tips.

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Preventative tips to help minimize root canal infections

Maintain good oral hygiene

Brushing and flossing your teeth is always on top of the list of things to do to prevent any potential dental issues. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss the teeth once a day. This is the best way to keep your gums healthy, fight cavities and prevent tooth decay. It also helps to rinse your mouth with water after meals. Do not use any commercial products unless recommended by your dentist.

Wear a mouth guard at night

If you grind or clench your teeth due to stress, try and find a way to break the habit. If you grind your teeth subconsciously or in your sleep, make sure that you wear a night-guard to protect teeth from fractures, which eventually can expose the tooth’s roots.

Avoid acidic drinks and foods like soda and citrus juices

Many of these beverages contain a large amount of acid and contain a high amount of sugar which is harmful to the teeth. First, they break down enamel. Then, they saturate the tooth with sugar for bacteria to grow on. If you drink it never brush your teeth directly after, this will remove the softened enamel even more. Rinse with water.

Avoid using tobacco products

Tobacco products affect the health of your gums and leave your teeth more susceptible to damage.

Smoking, shisha and using chewing tobacco can weaken your teeth, cause gum disease, and make tooth canal infections more likely.

Top Tips on Preventing a Root Canal Infection

Avoid chewing on inedible objects

Chewing on pen caps, fingernails, drinking straws and other inedible objects can lead to chips and cracks on the teeth. Avoid these bad habits to protect your teeth from harm and potential root canal infection.

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Stay hydrated with water

If you suffer from frequent and chronic dry mouth, you might be at greater risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Drink water when thirsty at regular intervals to keep your mouth moist and healthy.

Get your tooth pain checked out immediately! 

Any pain is a sign that something is amiss in your mouth and ignoring it will only make treatments more serious down the road. If you feel a pain in your tooth, do not take an analgesic in order to subdue the pain. Seek a dentist.

Have regular dental checkups and cleanings. 

See your dentist regularly. Seeing your dentist twice a year for checkups will help keep your smile intact. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for cleanings and checkups. The dental team should inform you about the individual risk you might have and how to prevent them.

Avoid hard foods such as hard candies and lollipops

The oral bacteria that cause root canal infection has an affinity for sugary foods.  That means that candies and lollipops can lead to cavities. It is common for someone to crack their teeth while eating hard foods. Better to eat all candy one day a week than a little every day. It is the frequency that destroys the teeth.