Tooth decay and infection are among the most common oral health threats in the world, affecting millions of people every single year. Indeed, while it may be common, it is not the only thing that patients must worry about, and truthfully, we are all constantly fending off a barrage of concerns from attacking our smiles. What’s more? Issues can spread much faster than many anticipate, and before you know it, you are faced with the difficult decision of having a tooth permanently removed. In today’s blog, your Overland Park, KS dentist explores the impact tooth decay and infection has on your smile, as well as how root canal therapy can protect your nerves.
A Common Beginning
Just as many other oral health complications arise, tooth decay begins when oral bacteria lurk in the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Here, they are able to thrive and feed off of the particles from the foods we consume. Some substances in particular, such as sugars, actually cause these bacteria to produce a destructive acid that then eats away at your healthy layer of protective enamel. Once the tooth is exposed, the infection begins to set in.
Typically, decay presents itself as a small hole known as a cavity. Without proper treatment or care, however, it will become worse and worse, requiring more extensive treatment to care for it. While a well-rounded preventive care routine helps lessen these chances, sometimes patients find themselves struggling to salvage their natural structures. Fortunately, in cases such as these, root canal therapy can help. To learn more about this process and what your next best steps are, reach out to our team today.
Unbearable Circumstances
When a person endures significant tooth decay or infection, he or she will experience a number of telltale signs or symptoms. Among these include heightened sensitivity, sharp pains, and even difficulties with routine tasks such as biting, chewing, and eating. This is because the infection has worked its way into the inner canals of your oral structure where the sensitive pulp and nerves are contained. For more information about how decay spreads and the damage it may cause, contact our team and schedule your next appointment today.
Treatment to Assist
When an individual experiences this level of infection, tooth loss is imminent without treatment. This is why our team would recommend a root canal procedure to help mitigate damage and save your natural structure. This process consists of removing the infected pulp from the canals, then filling the hollow chambers with dental material to provide reinforcement and protection. Following this, we will place a crown restoration over the structure so as to promote necessary healing and keep bacteria away.
Learn More Today
To learn more about the need for restorative dentistry and how our team can help, contact Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS by calling 913-381-2600 and schedule your next appointment with our team today.