Can You Avoid a Root Canal with Antibiotics? What You Should Know
Are you fearful of going to the dentist? Many people are for a variety of reasons. Some fear the pain that sometimes comes along with treatments. Others are fearful of the money that often accompanies dental visits. Still others are fearful out of embarrassment of the condition of his or her teeth. All of this fear will lead to fewer trips to the dentist, and it can have a very painful result.
In some cases, you may have a tooth that will abscess. An abscessed tooth is when dangerous bacteria build up around a tooth and the gum, leading to a very painful lesion. Swelling, bleeding, and of course shocking nerve pain accompany it. This is no way to live, so regular dental care is essential to avoiding this problem. The following is some information about abscessed teeth and the different treatments that are available:
Abscess Treatment with Antibiotics Only
The primary treatment for abscessed teeth is antibiotic care. If you have a cavity that is going to require a filling or an extraction, you will have to go through a round of antibiotics beforehand.
Some people may wonder whether antibiotics only are good enough to treat the tooth without further dental care. In general, antibiotic-only care is not going to work well. Antibiotics will help kill the bacteria in the abscess and reduce any swelling or fever that comes along with it. While antibiotics can help heal an abscess, it will not treat the tooth that is causing the infection. Chances are, the abscess will eventually return, and you will have to endure the process all over again.
The Ideal Treatment for Abscessed Teeth
Although antibiotics are needed to control the infection, you are going to need further treatment in order to remove the source of the bacterial growth. If left behind, the bacteria will continue to feed on the dentin and pulp of the tooth and cause continual problems. The internal portion of the bad tooth needs to be completely removed, and the areas around it need to be cleaned. This is where a root canal can be beneficial.
The words "root canal" can send shivers down the spines of those who are fearful of the dentist. However, thanks to today's technology, a root canal is quite easy and comes with little pain. In the end, you will find that enduring a root canal is worth never having to deal with an abscess again.
If you have a problem tooth that is constantly causing you pain, you need to see your dentist as soon as possible. A root canal is a great option that will save your tooth. Waiting too long could result in losing the tooth altogether.
Visit sites like http://www.apollodentalcenter.com to find a dentistry near you.