No one wants to undergo root canal therapy. It is actually a much more common fear than you may think. According to the American Association of Endodontics, approximately 59% of people are afraid of root canal therapy. It is a more common fear that public speaking, spiders, and getting trapped in an elevator! Fortunately, there are many ways that you can reduce your chances of needing one, including utilizing your preventive coverage. Continue reading to learn some steps you should take.
Brush Twice a Day
You should be brushing your teeth twice for about two minutes each time. This is the most ideal way to remove harmful plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay. By taking this step, you can reduce your chances of needing a root canal later on.
Floss Every Day
Your toothbrush can’t reach certain places in the mouth. That’s why it’s necessary to floss along with brushing. By removing plaque from between the teeth and beneath the gumline, you are less likely to need filling or root canal therapy.
Stay Away from Acidic and Sugary Foods
Foods and beverages that are acidic will soften your protective enamel. This leaves your teeth vulnerable to bacteria, which is fueled by sugar. Consuming foods that are high in these ingredients too often can cause you to experience enamel erosion and decay. Limit the amount of soda, energy drinks, and juice that you drink to prevent the need for a root canal.
Be Cautious of Hard Foods
If you are eating something that’s hard, you need to be especially careful. By accidentally chipping or cracking your tooth, you are creating a way for bacteria to enter and cause an infection. At this point, you would require root canal therapy to save your tooth.
Use a Mouthguard
It’s super important to stay active in order to stay healthy, but some activities can be risky for your smile. By investing in a custom mouthguard from your dentist, you can keep your teeth from becoming broken and cracked while your head is in the game!
Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits
For most people with dental insurance, their plan covers preventive services, like checkups, cleanings, x-rays, and more. These services are important because they help to prevent oral health issues from occurring later on. If you haven’t utilized your insurance benefits this year, now would be a great time to do so. When the year comes to an end, most insurance plans will renew, and your unused benefits from this year will not carry over to 2022.
Instead of spending extra time in the dental chair undergoing a root canal, use the steps listed above. This way, you can come out of the holiday season with a healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Stacy Goodwill is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for well over 20 years. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) post-graduate program with the Navy. Currently, she is affiliated with the American Dental Association, North Dakota Dental Association, International Dental Implant Association, Spear Education, and CEREC Doctors. For more information on preventive dentistry or to schedule an appointment at her office in Fargo, visit her website or call (701) 237-3583.