Are There Alternatives to Root Canal Therapy?

If you have extreme tooth discomfort or an infection, your dentist may recommend root canal therapy in Richmond. Root canal therapy can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. But what if you are apprehensive of the procedure? You may be asking yourself if other options do not require root canal therapy to treat your condition.

In this blog, we will discuss your options, when those options are appropriate, and what things you should consider when exploring your treatment options.

What Does A Root Canal Treatment Do?

Root canal treatment removes the infected or necrotic pulp (the inside of your tooth), cleans the canal space, and restores the canal space to prevent further infection. It offers a way to preserve your original tooth and prevent the infection from getting worse.

Without this treatment, an infection left untreated can result in:

• Swelling and discomfort that persist
• Damage to adjacent teeth
• Damage to the bone surrounding your tooth
• spread of the virus to your body’s other organs.

Why Explore Alternatives?

People often ask about alternatives to root canal treatments for the following reasons:

• They feel anxious about dental treatment
• They have heard that root canals are painful (new methods, equipment and techniques make root canals much easier than in the past)
• They are looking for a less invasive option
• The tooth is already significantly damaged

What Are the Common Root Canal Alternative Treatments?

Here are some additional options your dentist in Richmond might discuss with you:

1. Tooth Extraction

• The most common alternative is when a tooth cannot be restored.
• The infected tooth is completely extracted.
• You may need a dental implant, bridge or partial denture to replace the tooth that is lost.

2. Pulp Capping

• This is an option when the pulp is exposed but has not become infected.
• There is a special medicated material that the dentist can place over the pulp to protect it.
• This can only be done when the tooth has been damaged in the early stages of decay.

3. Antibiotic Treatment

• In some cases, antibiotics can be prescribed for temporary control of the infection.
• This is usually used for a small infection or to help prepare for another procedure.
• This is not a long-term solution; the infection will ultimately return.

4. Ozone Therapy

• Ozone therapy is an emerging treatment that is created to uses ozone gas or ozone dissolved in water to kill bacteria.
• It is still being clinically researched and trialled, which may limit its availability in some dental practices.

5. Natural Remedies (Temporary Relief)

• Rinse with warm salt water; apply clove oil or over-the-counter pain relief medication.
• These bring some relief, but in the long term, they will not help.

How Do You Choose the Right Option?

The dentist will weigh the choice between having a root canal and alternative treatment. Applicable Factors – Here are a few questions the dentist may ask:

Can a Root Canal Be Avoided?

If you catch dental issues early enough, you may be able to avert a root canal. Some preventative options include:

• Using toothpaste with fluoride twice a day
• Flossing once a day
• Visiting the dentist for dental examinations at regular intervals
• Treating cavities so they do not worsen
• Minimizing consumption of sugary snacks or beverages

Keep Your Smile Healthy with The Urban Dentist

If you have not made your decision to have a root canal, or if you would like to discuss your options, The Urban Dentist can help with the decision-making and will be able to do so with defined steps and detail for your comfort. Our staff will examine your teeth and provide the pros and cons for every treatment option and help you select the treatment option that keeps your smile strong and healthy.

Do not wait until your pain has escalated; schedule your visit today and take the first step toward a healthier smile.