A root canal is one of the options your dentist has to save your tooth. Ideally, you should avoid the need to have the procedure done. When you are unable to avoid the procedure, there are certain things you need to do to ensure that your mouth properly heals. Here are some tips to help you prevent the need for a root canal and what you can do if you do end up needing one.  

What Can You Do to Avoid a Root Canal?

A root canal is preventable with the right steps. One of the most important steps you can take is to make sure you are seeing the dentist on a regular basis. Although there are recommendations for how often you see the dentist, your dentist can help set the best frequency based on your specific dental health.  

In addition to this, you need to focus on a healthy diet. Certain foods, such as sugary and acidic foods, can be hard on your teeth. These foods soften the enamel, and that means that your teeth are less protected from developing an infection. The infection can often lead to the need for a root canal.  

Your healthy diet also needs to include an increase in calcium. Calcium is easily found in foods such as kale, broccoli, and milk.  

Fluoride is important in your quest to avoid a root canal. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel on your teeth. The better your enamel is, the more it can protect your teeth.  

What Should You Do If You Need a Root Canal?

One of the most important things to remember about the root canal is that it is not the source of your pain. People often confuse the pain from the infection in their teeth with the procedure. In actuality, the root canal helps to alleviate the pain. The dentist will remove the infected pulp, and this should give you immediate relief.  

Following the root canal, you need to focus on keeping your teeth and gums clean. Doing so can sometimes be challenging because you will experience some tenderness in the first few days following the procedure, but do not skip brushing and flossing. 

You also should consider talking to your dentist about a crown for your tooth. Although the tooth is treated through the root canal, the crown can help ensure that the tooth does not have any problems in the future.  

Your dentist will provide you with additional tips for your recovery once the procedure is completed. Talk to a dentistry such as Premier Dental Group  to set up an appointment.