It’s believed that 59% of people are more scared of getting a root canal than public speaking, according to a study by the American Association of Endodontists. You might find yourself in that crowd and want to do your best in avoiding this treatment. Thankfully, there are many things you can do, and using your dental insurance is one! Here are tips you should keep in mind to keep your smile in great shape.
Why Would Someone Need a Root Canal?
Before diving into how to avoid a root canal, it’s important to understand what calls for this procedure in the first place. Essentially, it’s needed when the inner pulp of a tooth is infected or at risk of it from damage. Bacteria can attack it and cause a severe toothache, fever, swelling, and sensitivity, to name a few. This procedure can be helpful in removing the affected tissue and getting you back to a comfortable smile you love.
How Can My Dental Insurance Help Me Avoid This Treatment?
With that said, you might be curious about how your dental insurance can help you avoid a root canal. Well, it’s all thanks to the benefits you get. Plans often will pay a portion of some treatments, but many will cover preventive services, like your checkup and cleanings. These visits are crucial as they let your dentist monitor changes to your teeth and gums every six months; that way, they can spot any worrying signs and get you treated right away.
Since these appointments are recommended twice annually, insurance providers often cover both for a certain year. However, benefits often expire at the end of the calendar year, so if you don’t use them, then they essentially go to waste.
What Can I Do at Home to Avoid a Root Canal?
The good news is that there are things you can do at home in tandem with visits to your dentist to avoid needing a root canal. Here are simple tips you should add to your routine:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. This will help fortify your enamel and remove plaque that can lead to a cavity or gum disease, eventually saving you from this treatment.
- Don’t forget to floss, as it can get into places your toothbrush cannot reach and clean out bacteria in these tight spaces.
- Wear a mouthguard if you play sports to avoid dental injuries.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods as they can erode the top layer of your teeth and leave them vulnerable to oral health issues.
- Be careful around hard foods as they can cause chips that then become a route for bacteria to reach the inner pulp.
Keep the handy steps above in mind, and you can do your best to avoid a root canal. That way, you keep your smile in the great shape it deserves to be in.
About the Author
Dr. Dustin Lively earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. He is dedicated to helping the Mangum community get stronger teeth and gums with preventive care. By having routine checkups, Dr. Lively can watch out for any red flags in your grin and get them sorted out before you need more major treatments. If you do, then he uses state-of-the-art technology to make it an easier and more comfortable experience.
If you want to do your part in preventing root canals, schedule an appointment or call his office at (580) 782-2552.