When it comes to oral health, few things can be as frustrating as a root canal infection. Whether due to limited access to oral healthcare, poor oral hygiene practices, or lifestyle choices, these infections can affect your immune system. In 2023 alone, Florida reported over 800 emergency department visits per 100,000 residents aged five years and older due to dental complications.
With a bit of knowledge and maintenance, these infections can easily be avoided. In this guide, we will walk you through the top five causes of root canal infections, how they occur, and what you can do to safeguard against them.
Root canal infections occur when harmful bacteria make their way into the soft tissue, or pulp, inside the tooth. This can cause pain, swelling and, if left untreated, serious damage, like an abscess or even tooth loss. But this need not be the case, proper early treatment can make a big difference.
When you address the infection early, you can avoid more complex procedures, like extractions. While root canal therapy might sound intimidating, it’s a routine and straightforward procedure. With modern techniques, it’s safer and more comfortable than ever. Be sure to take action at the first sign of discomfort to not only relieve your pain but also prevent long-term damage.
Common signs to watch out for include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, and swelling around the gums. Most patients report minimal discomfort, and recovery is quick, allowing you to return to normal activities in no time.
If you want to take a step further and avoid this altogether, read on to understand the main causes of this infection and how to avoid unnecessary decay and damage.
Cavities initially appear as a small inconvenience, but over time, if left untreated, they can evolve into a severe root canal infection. When tooth decay starts, it typically affects the enamel and gradually progresses to the dentin (the middle layer of the tooth). If this process continues unchecked, the bacteria can infiltrate the tooth’s pulp (soft tissue inside the tooth), which contains blood vessels and nerves. Once bacteria reach the pulp, the infection is often inevitable and may require more intensive treatment, such as root canal therapy.
Maintain a consistent and thorough oral hygiene routine. Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and bacteria. Additionally, schedule routine dental check-ups so that your dentist can detect cavities early before they develop into something more serious. Lastly, reduce the intake of sugary snacks and drinks, because they fuel the bacteria that are responsible for enamel breakdown and subsequent infection.
Accidents and injuries can lead to cracks or chips in your teeth that can become entry points for bacteria. Whether through a contact sport injury, a fall, or if you’ve accidentally bitten something hard, these cracks may need to be filled, crowned, or extracted by a dentist. If left untreated, the infiltrated bacteria can travel to the pulp and cause an infection, potentially requiring a root canal to resolve the issue.
If you participate in contact sports, remember to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to reduce the risk of tooth injuries. Additionally, it’s important to avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or hard candies, which can cause unnecessary damage to your teeth. Should you experience a crack or chip, it’s important to consult your dentist as soon as possible so that you prevent further complications.
While dental procedures are generally safe, not all are performed with the same level of expertise. If a root canal treatment isn’t carried out properly or if the tooth is not adequately sealed, it can leave space for bacteria to remain or re-enter. In such cases, bacteria can thrive inside the tooth and cause reinfection, leading to the need for additional treatment.
At Erik’s Dental Group you are in safe hands. Get to know our professional dental team and book a treatment with us so that you can rest assured that the procedure will be done correctly the first time.
Aftercare instructions should be followed meticulously to support proper healing. If you’re ever unsure about the outcome of any given procedure, seek a second opinion for peace of mind and as a preventative measure for any additional complications further down the line.
A significant blow to the face or jaw can result in trauma that affects more than just surface-level injury. When this occurs, it can damage the blood supply to a tooth, and potentially cause greater internal damage that makes the tooth prone to infection. Even if the tooth appears fine on the surface, there may be hidden damage that sets the stage for bacterial growth, leading to a root canal infection.
When you take part in any kind of sport or high-risk activity, remember to always wear protective gear, such as a helmet or face guard. If you experience any discomfort following a blow to the tooth, it’s important not to ignore the pain. Consult your local dentist, especially if there is persistent toothache afterward.
Even after a successful root canal procedure, there is still a possibility of reinfection. If the protective crown or filling becomes damaged or dislodged, the tooth can be exposed to bacteria once again, which may lead to reinfection. This can undo the positive results from the initial treatment.
Be sure to schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of crowns, fillings, and other dental work. These visits allow your dentist to detect any signs of wear and tear early on, ensuring that any issues are addressed before they escalate. Keep the habit of flossing and brushing regularly so that you can further reduce the risk of bacterial growth and keep your teeth and dental work in optimal condition.
Root canal infections aren’t fun, but the good news is that they’re largely preventable. When you understand the causes and take proactive steps, you can reduce your risk and keep your teeth in tip-top shape.
Ready to give your teeth their much-deserved care plan?
Whether it’s time for a routine check-up or you’re concerned about something a little more specific, don’t wait. At Erik’s Dental Group, we use professional cosmetic dentistry, with the latest technology to help you achieve your dream smile.
We offer a free cosmetic dentistry consultation to advise you on a custom treatment plan that will best suit your needs. Book your appointment online today with our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Ty Eriks, or contact us at our Fort Lauderdale office by calling 954-463-5051. Let’s help you keep smiling.
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