Monthly Archives: May 2016
Monthly Archives: May 2016
Root canal therapy can help a patient save a tooth that has been extensively damaged due to an injury or a large cavity. Unfortunately, many patients buy into the inaccurate perception that root canal treatments are extremely painful. In reality, most patients who undergo a root canal report that they experience no more discomfort than they would with having a cavity filled. We understand that facing root canal therapy can be daunting, but there’s no need to be afraid of it. We find that patients who get accurate answers to any questions they may have feel more reassured and at ease during the procedure. Here are some of the most common questions that patients pose to us. What is root canal therapy? A root canal is a procedure in which the dentist removes infected pulp tissue (or tissue that has been exposed to oral bacteria) from the inner chamber of the tooth that contains it. After the root canal chamber has been emptied and thoroughly cleaned to remove any lingering bacteria, it is sealed using a rubber-like substance. A crown will be placed on the treated tooth, which may be more likely to break as a result of the root canal. Why do I need a root canal? Your dentist can explain the specific need in your case, but generally root canals are performed to save teeth that have been compromised by large cavities or by an injury extensive enough to expose the tooth’s pulp to the oral cavity. How painful will this be? The idea that root canals are painful is an outdated one. It’s unlikely that you’ll experience any more discomfort than you did the last time you had a cavity filled. How long will it take to recover from my root canal? You will get instructions for what to expect after the root canal, but generally patients may experience some mild discomfort for a few days after the appointment. Additionally, patients should avoid chewing with the treated tooth until the crown has been placed. If a root canal has been recommended in your case and you have additional questions about the procedure, please reach out to one of our experienced staff members. We want you to have the right information so that you can have a reasonable idea of what to expect from the treatment. Contact our office today to get your root canal questions answered by our helpful and caring staff!
Patients who get treatment for gum disease in its earliest stages generally find that the interventions are less invasive and disruptive to their lives. However, as the condition advances, it requires more involved treatments. In some cases, serious gum disease can even contribute to bone and tooth loss, posing the potential need for surgical placement of dental implants. If you monitor your gums for signs of disease, like bleeding, swelling or redness, you may be able to avoid a more aggressive periodontal treatment. Early stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, usually responds to a thorough professional cleaning that you can get at your dentist. Seeing your dentist every six months will help you stay on top of gum disease and increase your chances of having it diagnosed in milder forms. When your gums are monitored regularly, a professional can intervene before the gum disease has the opportunity to progress. Another consideration about periodontal treatment is that a general dentist can typically address gingivitis, but when more significant symptoms emerge, such as pockets between the gums and the teeth, the patient may need to get care from a periodontist. This specialized type of care can be more expensive and require more time for recuperation, neither of which is likely to appeal to patients. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to avoid advanced gum disease. First of all, maintain a thorough home oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing. You should also visit our office at least every six months for professional cleanings as well as exams. In combination, these actions can significantly reduce your risk of periodontitis. Patients who want to prevent the negative effects of periodontitis and other severe forms of gum disease should pay attention to symptoms they may notice at home as well as check in with our office for exams and cleanings at least every six months. If you’ve gotten out of the habit of semi-annual routine appointments, call us at the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan to schedule one and get back on track.
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