Tooth infections can happen as the result of periodontal disease, cracked or otherwise injured teeth, and cavities, which cause holes in the teeth that allow bacteria to enter the tooth. For some people, the symptoms that typically come with a tooth infection, such as pain, swelling, sensitive teeth, and even fever, are absent.

It’s Possible to Have No Symptoms With a Tooth Infection

Once bacteria are able to enter the inner chamber of a tooth—where nerves that supply blood and feeling to the tooth are housed—they typically cause an infection [1]. The infection may cause the inner tissue of the tooth, and the tooth itself, to die. Once this has taken place, some people won’t be able to feel the ongoing infection.

For others, their immune system does its best to fight the infection, which keeps an active tooth infection from becoming symptomatic. For those that have existing tooth infections with no symptoms, the only way to tell if there’s an infection is by visiting your dentist and getting x-rays taken.

Even Without Symptoms, the Infection Won’t Go Away Without Treatment

If you have a tooth infection but don’t have any symptoms, you might think it’s okay to forgo treatment. However, even if you aren’t having any symptoms, the tooth abscess and infection won’t go away without treatment [2].

The infection will eventually get worse, or, if you have another illness that requires your immune system’s attention, you may suddenly be symptomatic. Severe tooth infections rarely happen overnight—typically, these infections have been occurring for some time and are just now presenting symptoms.

Getting treatment is essential because the infection can spread to the tissues around the tooth, and may even enter the bloodstream, at which point it can become life-threatening [3].

How Can You Know If You Have a Tooth Infection?

If you’ve had any type of trauma to your tooth such as a crack, chip, or break, it’s always best to have the issue evaluated by your professional dentist. Although it may not feel like you need treatment at the time, these issues can worsen and eventually lead to a tooth infection in some cases.

While most patients will have symptoms with their tooth infections, some won’t. By regularly seeing your dentist and paying attention to your oral care, you can help detect any potential abnormalities—such as swelling in the face—before they have a chance to become life- threatening.

Your dentist can help you detect a potential tooth infection early to minimize your treatment and help save your tooth. Remember that not all dental issues have symptoms, making regular checkups important and potentially even life-saving!

Sources:
1. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/a/abscess
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tooth-abscess/symptoms-causes/syc-
20350901
3. https://www.bmj.com/content/350/bmj.h1300

The post Can a Tooth Infection Be Painless? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

The good news is that with the right diet and oral care techniques, most cavities can be prevented! You know that a well-balanced diet low in sugar and high in fresh fruits and vegetables is good for you, but what are some particularly good veggies for teeth? The following vegetables could help lower your risk of developing cavities!

Dark Leafy Greens

Dark leafy greens are high in calcium and can help you reach your daily intake of this mineral for strong teeth. Calcium makes up the majority of your tooth enamel, which is what helps protect your teeth from the acids and bacteria that can cause cavities. Some great dark leafy greens to consider include:

• Kale
• Collard greens
• Spinach
• Beet greens
• Swiss chard

While not technically a leafy green, broccoli is also high in calcium and can help support a healthy smile [1]. Not to mention broccoli is good for you period!

Mushrooms

Another essential nutrient for a strong smile is vitamin D. Vitamin D helps support bone and teeth health, and plays other crucial roles in the body, including supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and even working with calcium for optimal nutrient absorption!

An excellent vegetable source of vitamin D is mushrooms. A serving of button mushrooms can provide over 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin D [2]. You can enjoy mushrooms in virtually any dish, from soups and salads to side dishes and pasta!

Soy and Sauerkraut

While these may sound like odd food choices, consider that natto—a Japanese fermented soybean dish, available at many grocery stores—contains one of the highest amounts of vitamin K2. Vitamin K2 is essential to bone health, and can even support healthy teeth to reduce your risk of cavities [3].

Sauerkraut is another good source of vitamin K2. This fermented cabbage dish contains healthy probiotics and is versatile enough to go with many dishes. Try it in lettuce wraps, on burgers and sandwiches, or as a side dish in a veggie bowl or salad!

Squash Seeds

Different types of squash seeds—including pumpkin and other winter squash—are high in phosphorus, which is another important mineral in helping fortify your pearly whites against cavities [4].

Not only that, but roasted squash seeds are also high in vitamin K, which can work with other nutrients to strengthen teeth [5]. You can enjoy squash seeds roasted as a snack, or try raw pumpkin seeds in salads and soups!

Happy Munching!

Did any of these plant-based sources of teeth-friendly nutrients surprise you? Eating healthy goes a long way towards preventing cavities, but so does taking good care of your teeth at home and visiting your dentist. Enjoy some of these veggies to help prevent cavities—and don’t skip your regular dental cleanings!

Sources:
1. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/
2. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf203825e
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5494092/
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325623#what-is-dietary-phosphorus
5. https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3067/2

The post These Vegetables Could Lower Your Risk of Developing Cavities appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Preparing for your wedding day includes more than booking the venue, hiring a caterer, and sending out invitations. A wedding is an opportunity for many people to address what they don’t like about their smiles to ensure their wedding day is absolutely perfect!

What are some of your cosmetic dentistry options for your big day? Here’s how you can correct both small and large issues with your smile before your wedding!

Teeth Whitening: Safe and Effective

Many brides and grooms opt for professional teeth whitening for their wedding smiles. Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to brighten teeth [1]. You have the option of going with a dramatic upgrade for the whitest smile, or a subtle whitening for a more natural look. Your dentist can review your options with you during your consultation. Professional teeth whitening generally only takes an hour at your local dentist’s office, making it a quick and easy solution for a gorgeous-looking smile!

Improve Many Issues at Once With Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a popular way to improve numerous concerns about your smile with one treatment. People who opt for dental veneers report increased self-confidence, and there are different types of veneers based on your goals for your smile, from ultra-thin versions to composite resin veneers [2].

If you have deeply stained teeth that don’t respond to whitening techniques, unshapely teeth, or even mildly crooked teeth, veneers can help correct all of these concerns and more. Veneers are stain-resistant and can noticeably transform your smile for your big day!

Fix Chips and Cracks With Dental Bonding

If you have a few chips or cracks in your teeth, dental bonding is a cost-effective procedure that can correct the appearance of these issues and help prevent them from becoming worse, making it both a cosmetic and restorative form of dentistry.

Often times, brides and grooms that have chips or cracks in their smile don’t realize how much their appearance can improve with dental bonding. The process uses the same composite resin material as tooth-colored fillings, allowing you to repair your smile safely!

Dental Crowns for Strength and Beauty

Porcelain dental crowns are an excellent option for people that have cracked teeth at risk of developing complications, worn-down teeth, or even a single discolored tooth. Dental crowns are strong and can last for many years with proper maintenance, giving you a secure option for your wedding smile.

Many dentists offer same-day crown technology with in-office machinery, giving you the option to get your permanent dental crown in just one day [3]. This prevents the need for numerous appointments and helping you save time before your wedding!

Invisalign: Straighten Teeth Faster

If you have crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth that you’d like to get fixed before your wedding day, Invisalign could be the right choice. Clear orthodontic aligners with Invisalign give you the option to straighten your teeth faster than with traditional metal braces [4]. Your Invisalign-certified dentist or orthodontist can let you know if you would be a good candidate for

Invisalign to get your smile fixed by your wedding!

Have you considered cosmetic dentistry before your wedding? It’s never too late to get the smile of your dreams. Reach out to your experienced cosmetic dentist today to find out more about your options for cosmetic dentistry!

Sources:
1. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/researchers-say-oj-worse-for-teeth-than-
2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338865340_EC_DENTAL_SCIENCE_Review_A
3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317161101_The_application_of_CAD_CAM_
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28153154/

The post Cosmetic Dentistry Before Your Wedding Day appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Full sets are held in place by creating a natural suction between your gums and the dentures, which contain artificial teeth and gum tissue. Some people may need an adhesive to help the dentures feel secure, but for the most part, the natural seal does all the work.

With partial sets, a metal framework holds one or more artificial teeth in place. With either full or partial dentures, a secure and comfortable fit is a must for proper function. If your dentures don’t fit correctly, they can cause more than discomfort. Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore ill fitting dentures!

Dentures That Don’t Fit Properly Can Lead to Bone Loss

Your natural teeth played a vital role in stimulating your jaw bone, which helped keep the bone strong. Healthy jaw bone helps your face appear fuller, whereas lost teeth can make your cheeks have more of a hollow appearance as time goes on.

With dentures as your tooth replacement, they help stimulate your jaw bone to a certain extent to help retain some of your facial appearance. However, dentures that don’t fit properly won’t support your jaw bone in the same way.

Therefore, ill fitting dentures can lead to bone loss and improper wear on your gums, which can cause your bone to degenerate over time [1].

It May Be Harder to Chew Foods and Get the Right Nutrients

People who have dentures that don’t fit properly typically have trouble chewing, which is a problem that dentures are supposed to help correct. Without being able to eat the right goods due to denture discomfort, you may not be able to get all the nutrients you need for optimal health [2].

When dentures fit properly, you should be able to enjoy the majority of foods that you were able to eat before with your normal teeth. If your dentures feel loose or painful when biting or chewing, or you have difficulty eating with them, always follow up with your dentist to ensure your dentures fit properly!

Ill Fitting Dentures May Cause Sore Gums or Oral Sores

While it may take a bit of time to get used to your new dentures, they shouldn’t be uncomfortable beyond the first few weeks of wearing them. If your discomfort persists after this time—or is painful enough in the first few days or weeks that you feel something is wrong—don’t hesitate to follow up with your dentist.

Ill fitting dentures can cause sore gums or even oral sores on the softer tissues of your mouth that can be painful and frustrating. If you have oral sores as the result of ill fitting dentures, denture adhesive isn’t likely to solve the problem. Instead, call your dentist to have them check your dentures [3].

How Can You Ensure a Proper Fit?

Your dentist will do their best to ensure your dentures fit properly during your appointment. However, it’s up to you to note any discomfort that could mean your dentures don’t fit properly in the coming days and weeks. Remember, your dentures won’t last forever. They’ll need to be replaced every few years for maximum comfort. Always work with your dentist to resolve ill fitting dentures and protect your smile!

Sources:
1. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/denture-adhesives
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14576715/
3. https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/dentures

The post Don’t Ignore Ill Fitting Dentures appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

But decreasing the amount of added sugar in your diet isn’t easy for many people. Sugar has been shown to be as addictive as drugs such as cocaine [1]. To help you fight those pesky sugar cravings, here are some tricks that can keep you away from sugar and keep your teeth healthy!

Drink Water

The body can misinterpret thirst for hunger, which can lead you to think you’re hungry when really you’re thirsty [2]. When you’re having a craving for sugar, try drinking a glass of water and waiting your craving out for a few minutes. If the craving still doesn’t go away, decide whether it’s time to have a healthy meal or snack in place of a sugary one!

Manage Your Temptations

Managing your temptations can be an instrumental part of fighting your sugar cravings. When grocery shopping, choose healthy foods and snacks, and do your best to keep added sugar out of your cart. Added sugar is present in many foods, from sweetened yogurts to barbeque sauce to salad dressings. But by not keeping sugary snacks or sodas in your home or office, you make it easier to make the right choice when a craving hits.

Eat Enough Fiber

When you feel hungry, it’s easy to want to reach for foods that are immediately rewarding to the brain such as sugar. If you’re reducing your consumption of added sugar, consider adding more fiber to your diet if you need it. Fiber can help you feel full for longer, which may help reduce cravings and help you better manage your hunger [3].

Don’t Avoid Fruit

Fruit is beneficial to your health in ways that sugar isn’t—it provides vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, whereas added sugar is just empty calories [4]. Whole fruit is naturally sweet, although if you’re purchasing dried or canned fruit, be sure to check the label for any sugar added to the product. Fruit can be an excellent addition to your diet to help satisfy your craving for sugar and keep your teeth and gums healthy!

Impress Your Dentist During Your Next Visit!

You can reduce your added sugar consumption and keep your teeth and gums healthy to impress your dentist during your next checkup. If you do choose to indulge in sugar occasionally, be sure to drink water to help reduce sugar’s harsh effect on your teeth, and wait a minimum of 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating.

Visiting your dentist can help support a healthy smile and keep your teeth and gums healthy whether you don’t consume added sugar at all, indulge in sugar sometimes, or are still trying to kick a daily sugar habit. Try fighting your sugar cravings with these tips!

Sources:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23719144/
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322947#drinking-water
3. https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/metabolic-and-bariatric-surgery-
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22797986/

The post Tricks to Fight Sugar Cravings (And Keep Your Teeth Healthy!) appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

While dental implants are meant to last a lifetime, peri-implantitis can affect the health and longevity of your dental restorations. It’s essential to take the best possible care of your dental implants to avoid any complications so you can have a healthy and strong smile. Here’s what you need to know about peri-implantitis!

What Causes It?

While dental implants are excellent restoration options for your missing teeth, your gum tissue isn’t able to attach to your dental implant in quite the same way that it does to your natural tooth.

Peri-implantitis can happen at any point after your dental implant procedure is complete, whether because the gum tissue hasn’t properly adjusted or because of inadequate oral care. When the gum tissue doesn’t properly attach to your dental implant, it can leave a space where bacteria can enter to cause the gum and bone inflammation we see in peri-implantitis.

Symptoms of Peri-Implantitis

The symptoms of peri-implantitis aren’t dissimilar to those of gum disease. People with peri-implantitis may experience [1]:

• Redness or tenderness in the gum tissue around a dental implant
• Pain or discomfort around the implant
• Bleeding when brushing
• A loose dental implant
• Visible pus or a bad taste in the mouth

Whether or not your symptoms are the result of gum disease or peri-implantitis, getting your dental implant assessed by your professional dentist is essential to determining what the problem is and taking the proper steps for effective treatment!

Risk Factors for Developing the Condition

Certain patients are more at risk to develop peri-implantitis, including those who [2]:

• Smoke or use tobacco
• Have poorly controlled diabetes or osteoporosis
• Have a history or gum disease or bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Have poor oral hygiene

Your dentist will ensure that you are a good candidate for dental implants based on your oral health history and current dental health to increase your chances of proper healing and reduce the risk for any complications.

How Can You Prevent It?

Peri-implantitis can often be prevented; making sure you know how to properly clean your dental implant is important [3]. If you floss too aggressively around the dental crown that completes your implant, you risk damaging the gum tissue’s attachment to the crown.

Like most dental conditions, catching peri-implantitis early can make all the difference to the success of your treatment. With regular visits to your dentist following your dental implant procedure, you can ensure that peri-implantitis isn’t an issue and if it is, make the necessary steps to correct it.

You can also help prevent peri-implantitis by not smoking and keeping your teeth clean. Your dentist is a helpful resource when preventing peri-implantitis, so don’t miss your regular checkups to keep your smile healthy and strong!

Sources:
1. https://www.perio.org/consumer/peri-implant-disease
2. https://jcda.ca/article/e24
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25626479

The post What Is Peri-Implantitis? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

But is there a correct way to brush and floss your pearly whites? Yes, there is! The following are good general guidelines for brushing and flossing as recommended by the American Dental Association and most dentists today.

Wait One Hour After Eating Before Brushing Your Teeth

First, before brushing, it’s best to know when to brush. Most of us know that brushing before breakfast is ideal, but what about that second brushing?

Due to the fact that your tooth enamel is affected by what you eat, it’s best to wait a minimum of 30 minutes and ideally one hour after eating to brush your teeth [1]. This is especially true if you’ve consumed acidic foods or drinks that can weaken tooth enamel such as soda or sugar.

Brushing immediately after eating can damage tooth enamel, causing it to wear away over time and subjecting teeth to painful tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and an increased risk for tooth decay.

Brush All Surfaces of Your Teeth Strategically

Instead of brushing without intention, brush your teeth strategically. With a soft-bristled brush, angle your toothbrush about 45 degrees to your gums and use short strokes to brush all surfaces of your teeth.

Be gentle yet thorough when brushing, and then position your toothbrush vertically to clean the backsides of your upper and lower front teeth [2]. Being too harsh when brushing or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush can damage your tooth enamel, especially if you already have sensitive teeth. Plaque can be removed gently, so be mindful about your brushing habits to protect your smile!

Take Your Time When Flossing

Many people make flossing a 30-second habit, yanking the floss in and out of their teeth. Just like with brushing, you want to be gentle when you floss, and you want to floss correctly.

So how do you do it?

Begin by making sure you’re using enough floss. You should have enough floss to use a new, clean section for each set of teeth. For most people, this equals about 18 inches of floss.

Holding the floss with your thumb and pointer finger, move the floss gently in between your teeth and move it upwards towards the gumline, curving it into a “C” shape as you go, allowing the floss to conform to the tooth and gently clean just beneath the gumline [3].

If you haven’t flossed in a while, it’s normal for your gums to bleed a bit or feel sore during the first couple of times. However, if the discomfort or bleeding persists, be sure to follow up with your dentist.

Have Questions? Ask Your Dentist!

If you have any questions about your brushing and flossing methods, ask your dentist. Your dentist or dental hygienist can let you know if your cleaning methods are effective during your regular checkups, and let you know if you’re missing any areas. Brush and floss your teeth properly for a truly clean smile!

Sources:
1. https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(14)65077-7/fulltext
2. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/~/media/MouthHealthy/Files/Kids_Section/ADAHowTo
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/flossing-steps

The post Is There a Correct Way to Brush and Floss? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Dental implants effectively restore your natural teeth and prevent the consequences gaps can create with your smile. What exactly are dental implants, and how do you know if you qualify?

Here are your top dental implant questions, answered!

What Exactly Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a restoration of your missing tooth that consists of different components. The first is the actual implant, which is typically made of titanium or ceramic. The implant is surgically inserted into your jawbone and allowed to fully heal. Once healed, the implant will support a dental crown.

Custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your teeth, your dental crown will attach to the end of the implant. The crown will look just like your natural tooth and will be impossible to differentiate from the rest of your smile. Dental implants have a success rate of over 97 percent and are considered to be excellent, secure replacements for missing teeth [1].

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Once your dental implant has successfully fused with your jawbone, it’s there for life. You’ll need to replace your dental crown eventually, but with the appropriate care, crowns can last 10-15 years or even longer!

Who Qualifies for Dental Implants?

The best candidates for dental implants are those that have good oral health. Your smile should be free of gum disease, and have enough bone in your jaw to support the implant [2].

However, if you’ve been missing teeth for some time and don’t have enough jawbone to sustain the implant, you have options. Your dentist may recommend a bone graft, which can help build up your natural jawbone to safely and effectively house a dental implant.

Can Dental Implants Restore Multiple Missing Teeth?

Yes! Dental implants provide flexible options when it comes to replacing numerous lost teeth. You have the option of all-on-four dental implants, which is a great choice for people missing all of their natural teeth with just a few implants that support a permanent restoration. Or, for numerous missing teeth in a row, you may have the option of an implant-supported bridge to restore your smile.

What Maintenance Will a Dental Implant Need?

Caring for your dental implant is as simple as brushing and flossing your teeth and seeing your dentist for regular visits [3]. Regular dental visits can keep your smile strong and healthy with your dental implant!

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

There are numerous factors that influence the cost of your dental implant. How many implants you need, whether or not you opt for an implant-supported bridge or other alternative, and whether or not you need a bone graft will all factor into the price. Your dentist can let you know what to expect in regards to cost during your consultation!

Dental implants give you the option to securely restore your smile for life. If you’re missing one or more of your natural teeth and are interested in dental implants, get in touch with your dentist today to see if you qualify for these secure restorations!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470448/
2. https://www.perio.org/consumer/dental-implants
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-

The post Your Top Dental Implant Questions: Answered! appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

It’s possible to have one or all of your wisdom teeth be impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth may partially surface with some gum tissue still covering the teeth, or they may be completely trapped in the gums. What happens when a wisdom tooth only partially erupts, and what can you do about it?

What Causes a Partially Erupted Wisdom Tooth?

Our ancestors needed their third molars for chewing tough, uncooked foods. Today, modern foods and cooking have eliminated the need for this extra set of teeth in our mouths. Over time, our jaws have gotten smaller, and as a result, more people are experiencing impacted wisdom teeth.

When the wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to erupt through the gums, are obstructed, or are in an abnormal position, they may only emerge partway through the gums [1]. Impactedwisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection. For some people, impacted wisdom teeth may “push” against the neighboring teeth, affecting tooth alignment.

Symptoms You May Experience With Impacted Wisdom Teeth

For some people, impacted wisdom teeth won’t cause any symptoms. However, for others, these partially erupted wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to an increased risk for infection and gum disease [2].

You may have impacted wisdom teeth if you:

Have jaw pain or swelling in the back of your mouth
Experience a bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
Have jaw stiffness
See bleeding gums
Experience soreness or discomfort around these teeth

Since impacted wisdom teeth can cause an infection, it’s essential to get them evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible if you’re experiencing any symptoms!

How to Treat a Partially Erupted Wisdom Tooth

For the majority of people who have a partially erupted wisdom tooth, extraction is the only treatment that will completely resolve the issue. Getting your impacted wisdom tooth or teeth removed can also help prevent future problems they may cause, such as headaches, infection, or teeth shifting.

Your dentist may also suggest measures to get an existing infection involving your third molars under control before the extraction procedure. Wisdom tooth extraction is a simple process that causes minimal discomfort, and most patients recover in just a few days.

Are You Experiencing Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth?

Do you have a partially erupted wisdom tooth? You dentist can help diagnose your issue with your wisdom teeth as well as recommend a treatment plan to resolve the problem. Don’t ignore the symptoms of problematic wisdom teeth—they won’t go away on their own!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2907590/
2. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/wisdom-teeth

The post What Is a Partially Erupted Wisdom Tooth? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

The Affected Tissue in Your Tooth Is Removed

Some patients who need root canal therapy have an infection inside their tooth, or extensive decay that’s compromised the inner tissue that supplies the tooth with blood and nutrients to keep it alive.

During a root canal, any tissue that’s been affected will be removed by your dentist or endodontist—a specialist at saving teeth. This tissue generally consists of nerves that may or may not be dead, and will be cleaned out from your tooth.

The removal of this material will prevent your tooth from being sensitive to temperature and, if your affected tooth is discolored, help restore its natural hue.

The Pulp Chamber Is Cleaned and Sealed

Once the affected tissue is removed, your dentist will carefully clean the inside of your tooth—sometimes called the pulp chamber—with special tools. This cleaning process will remove any bacteria and remaining microscopic tissue in your tooth that could contribute to future problems.

After the cleaning is done, your dentist or endodontist will dry and seal the canal to protect the tooth and ensure an infection can’t happen. The pulp chamber of the tooth is sealed with a biocompatible material, meaning your body will not react to it and it won’t cause any problems [2].

Your Tooth Is Capped Off With a Dental Restoration

Now that your tooth has been properly cleaned and sealed, you’ll need to have some type of restoration placed over your tooth to protect it from further trauma [3]. Many patients will get a dental crown, which is a porcelain replication of your natural tooth, placed over the area. However, some patients will only need a filling material to keep the treated tooth protected.

Your dentist can let you know more about what you need during your consultation for root canal therapy!

Could a Root Canal Benefit Your Smile?

Root canal therapy can save a tooth that’s been impacted by decay or an injury, and for patients that have a single discolored tooth, a root canal can generally restore its color. If you’ve been told you need a root canal, don’t fret about this common procedure. Your root canal will be handled by an experienced dentist or endodontist to save your tooth!

Sources:
1. https://news.llu.edu/patient-care/let-s-get-root-of-root-canal
2. https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/root-canal-
3. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007275.htm

The post What Happens to Your Tooth During a Root Canal? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.