Guide To Preventing And Treating A Dental Abscess

A Root Canal

If a patient attends the dentist early enough, a dental abscess can be treated when it is less advanced. In this case, a root canal may be able to save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction. Before doing a root canal, dentists will order x-rays and perform a clinical examination to determine the most effective method for saving the affected tooth. Root canals remove abscesses located at the root of the tooth. Once the abscess is removed, the area is filled and then sealed to prevent further infection. If the abscess has occurred in a molar, dentists may recommend placing a cap on the tooth after the root canal to strengthen the tooth. While dentists can perform root canals, endodontists are considered specialists in this particular procedure.

Some pain is to be expected after the procedure, and patients may be prescribed pain relievers to use at home. Patients should avoid chewing at the site of the root canal until the tooth has been successfully capped. Doing so could break the tooth. Other than this, patients should continue to follow recommended brushing and flossing routines at home. X-rays may be taken afterward to check patient progress.

Continue reading to learn about more ways of treating a dental abscess now.