Cavity filling and root canals are common procedures. Yet, some people don’t understand why they are important. It’s vitally important to understand how your teeth work and how they get infected. Read more to understand your tooth structure, why fillings are used and how root canals can save your teeth.
What you need to know
- Teeth consist of both the crown and the root. The crown is the part of the tooth that can be seen outside.
- Enamel, which is the hardest substance found in the human body, is your tooth’s toughest layer against hard foods.
- Dentin is underneath your enamel and at the very core of your tooth is a tissue called the pulp.
- The pulp is a soft connective tissue that provides nutrients to the rest of the tooth.
- The latter half of the tooth is embedded deep into the gums, and this is commonly referred to as the root.
- The root is mostly comprised of dentin and extends like prongs deep into the gums. At the tip of each prong blood vessels enter the tooth and connect to the pulp. Without this connection, your teeth will not receive nutrients and die.
- Most of the work that a dentist does aims to prevent the pulp from being damaged so that the tooth will not be lost.
- Tooth decay occurs naturally because of bacterial deposits from the outermost layer of the crown.
- Bacterial deposits that are left untreated will eat your enamel and dentin. This often leads to dental cavities. Fillings then are needed to replace the hole.
- Crowns form if the cavity forms at the top of the mouth. When a cavity has reached and infected the pulp, you must get a root canal to remove the pulp.
- During a root canal procedure, the dentist drills into the tooth from the top, removes the pulp, and fills the tooth with a synthetic substance.
- Though your tooth is technically dead, since it is sealed on the top of the crown, you will not lose that smile. This process stops because the dentist stopped the bacterial infection.
Brush and floss your teeth twice a day. It’s a must if you want to prevent bad bacteria deposits from building up in your mouth. Another way to best arm your teeth against future infections is to routinely visit Annapolis Dental Care.
If you have any questions about Root Canals, please contact Annapolis Dental Care by calling (410) 267-0766 or visit AnnapolisDentalCare.com today!
For over 20 years, Dr. Steckler and his team have been practicing comprehensive Family Dental Care. Our outstanding staff is devoted to caring for your oral situation and will ensure your dental visit is an enjoyable one, focusing on total patient comfort. We are motivated to offer cutting edge dentistry techniques and processes. Our committed staff will guide you in your pursuit of the perfect smile.
“At Dr. Steckler’s office, we understand that most patients are fearful of the dentist. Your comfort and care are our greatest concern.”
You can rest assured that you will receive the finest, personalized, attention you deserve. Utilizing the latest state of the art techniques in a gentle, caring fashion we will give you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. We will listen to your needs and answer all your questions.
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