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Root canals certainly aren’t on anyone’s list of favorite things to undergo. According to the American Association of Endodontists, approximately 59% of people are afraid of root canal therapy. This fear is more common than the feal of public speaking, spiders, and being trapped in an elevator. The good news is that there are various steps, including the use of preventive coverage, you can take to reduce your chances of needing a root canal. Read on to learn what you should do to keep your smile healthy!
Brush Twice Daily
Each day, you should brush your teeth twice for two minutes each time. This way, you can remove harmful plaque and bacteria that can cause issues, like tooth decay. This can help you to avoid needing root canal therapy to save a tooth.
Floss Every Day
Your toothbrush cannot clean every surface in your mouth, so it’s very important to floss every single day. By removing plaque and food particles from between the teeth and beneath the gumline, you can avoid the need for root canals or fillings.
Choose Your Foods Carefully
Foods and beverages that are high in acid can soften the protective enamel. This leaves it vulnerable to bacteria which are fueled by sugar in the mouth. Consuming foods that contain acid and sugar can cause you to experience enamel erosion and decay in the future. Remember to limit the amount of soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices you consume because they are all high in both of these ingredients.
Wear a Mouthguard
Staying active is important for the health of your entire body, but some sports can put you at risk for dental injuries. Fortunately, many can be easily avoided by using a mouthguard. Consider investing in a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist so you can keep your teeth from becoming cracked or broken and needing root canal therapy.
Use Your Preventive Coverage
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services, like checkups, professional cleanings, and routine x-rays. These services are especially important because they help to prevent oral health issues from occurring in the future. If you have yet to use your insurance benefits this year, now would be a great time to do so. At the end of the year, most insurance plans renew, and your benefits for this year will not carry over. If you don’t use it now, you will end up losing it!
You don’t want to have to spend extra time in the dental chair because you didn’t care for your smile. By using the steps listed above, you are less likely to need root canal therapy. Don’t forget to schedule your next checkups before you miss out on your 2021 benefits!
About the Author
Dr. Earl Chambers is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over 20 years. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore College of Dental Surgery and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. For more information on your dental insurance benefits or to schedule an appointment at his office in Annapolis, visit his website or call (410) 224-2660.