tooth anatomy on blue background.Fending off oral bacteria, tooth decay, gum infection, and a variety of other oral health concerns can be exhausting without the correct preventive dental routine. Indeed, from the foods you consume to the manner in which you care for your smile, nearly everything poses some form of threat. Without consistent preventive visits, you may not even notice a problem is occurring until it has already become too late. In today’s blog, your Cedar Rapids, IA dentist takes a look at the manner in which tooth decay spreads and causes damage, as well as how root canal therapy may be necessary to help.

Spreading Infection

Whether you are aware of it or not, tooth decay is among the most common oral threats out there, affecting millions of people in the United States every single year. What’s more? It can occur in a variety of forms, each a variation of the last. Indeed, the common factor between cavities, infected teeth roots, and even tooth loss can all be attributed to the damaging effects of decay.

Though you may be brushing your teeth daily, keep in mind that this alone is not enough to ward off the bacteria that cause the infection. In fact, oral bacteria may lurk in the recesses of the mouth where they thrive off of the foods you consume. Certain items in particular, such as sugars, cause these bacteria to produce an acid that wears down your enamel. Over time and without care, this will lead to the formation of a tiny hole known as a cavity.

As decay progresses, it begins to work its way into the inner portion of a structure and cause damage to your roots. If allowed to progress, tooth loss will become inevitable. Reach out to our office today to learn more.

Root Canal Therapy

If the infection has reached your tooth roots, you will likely begin to experience a number of symptoms or side effects. After all, your nerves will incur damage, resulting in sharp pains, sensitivity, and difficulty in function.

In order to mitigate this concern and preserve your natural tooth, your dentist may recommend root canal therapy. This process consists of cleaning and removing the infected pulp from inside a structure and then filling the open canals with material to reinforce its strength. For more information, give us a call.

Tips to Keep in Mind

Oral threats never truly cease, and as such, it is imperative you practice a well-rounded preventive dental routine. Even still, situations may develop faster than you expected, which is why it is critical you attend necessary visits so that your smile receives the best chances of successful treatment.

Book Your Visit

Contact Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA by calling 319-364-7108 to learn more about the steps you can take to care for your smile and schedule your next appointment with our office today.