Several years ago I decided to take a trip to the dentist after skipping multiple appointments for over 15 years. I truly had a dental anxiety and had a hard time getting over my fears. Thankfully, my dental visit went smoothly with only four cavities identified. What I did find from this dental visit was that there was a great deal of new information and technology that I had been missing out on. Laser-based technology and digital imaging are just a few examples. With this blog, I want you to understand that you can get over your fears and learn about this new technology like I did, so enjoy the information.
A root canal can save your tooth from extraction and for most people, this common procedure causes no adverse reactions. Certain things, however, can stall healing after your root canal, and while your dentist will give you aftercare instructions, there are things that he or she may not mention. Here are three things that may slow healing after your root canal procedure and what you can do about them:
Low Vitamin C Intake
If your vitamin C stores are low, you may be at a heightened risk for infection after a dental procedure such as a root canal. Not only does vitamin C help boost your immune function so that your body can fight off infections, but it also plays an important role in effective wound healing.
To raise your serum vitamin C levels, eat more nutrient-dense foods such as green leafy vegetables, oranges, and broccoli. If you have a vitamin C deficiency that has been diagnosed through a blood test, talk to your doctor about taking vitamin C supplements. While this vitamin if generally considered very safe, large doses can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and heartburn.
Certain Medications
Both over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause an unfavorable environment in your mouth. For example, antihistamines, medications that are used in the treatment of allergies and some skin conditions can dry out your mouth.
Other medications that can lead to oral dryness include blood pressure drugs and anti-anxiety medications. A dry mouth can raise your risk for infection after your root canal because when salivary flow is limited, it cannot effectively wash away bacteria and other harmful microorganisms in the mouth responsible for causing infections. If you take medications that cause a dry mouth, drink plenty of water. Avoid caffeinated beverages because these can further lead to oral dryness.
Sinus Infection
If you get a sinus infection, you may be susceptible to an infection after your root canal, especially if the affected tooth is on the top row. Sinus infections can lead to pain and inflammation of the upper gums and teeth, and if bacteria-laden mucus from your nose makes contact with the root canal site, an infection can develop.
If you develop nasal congestion, pain or pressure above your eye, fever, or if you have thick nasal discharge, you may have a sinus infection. If caused by bacteria, your physician may recommend that you take antibiotics. If, however, your sinus infection is caused by a virus or fungus, antibiotics will do little to eliminate it.
If your dentist recommends a root canal, consider the above risk factors. These, along with your dentist's post-procedure instructions will help you sail through your root canal so that your mouth will remain healthy and infection-free.
Share23 February 2018
