Prevent Further Decay

Port St. Lucie Tooth Decay

Adults suffer from tooth decay at alarming rates. Unfortunately, approximately one-quarter of American individuals have some degree of tooth decay. The good news is that root canal therapy, one of the most effective strategies to prevent future decay and retain the original tooth, is now simpler than ever. With years of experience, Mikhail Gankin, DMD, knows firsthand the life-changing potential of root canal therapy.

Decayed Tooth in Porst St. Lucie with Mikhail Gankin, DMD

Save your smile

What is tooth decay?

Whenever decay-causing bacteria in your mouth produce acids that destroy the enamel on your teeth, you've got tooth decay (dental caries). A cavity, a tiny hole in a tooth, can form as a result. Pain, infection, bad breath, and even tooth loss can result from untreated tooth decay. Once a person has teeth, people of any age can get cavities from childhood up. Very young children may develop "early childhood caries," often known as "baby bottle tooth decay," which is a severe form of tooth decay in baby teeth. Decay on the root surfaces of teeth is common among the elderly because of receding gums, which allows decay-causing bacteria in the mouth to come into contact with the tooth's root.

Keep your natural teeth

What are the benefits of decayed tooth treatment?

As the infection is eliminated, the risk of it spreading to other teeth and the gums are reduced, which is the most apparent advantage of a root canal. Saving the patient's natural tooth is the number one priority for dentists, and a root canal does just that. Keeping one's natural teeth offers a number of advantages. Keeping your natural teeth is aesthetically pleasing, safer, cheaper, and less painful than alternatives like dental implants, bridges, and dentures.

X-Rays and More

Your X Consultation

Dr. Gankin will want to identify where the decay is and the extent of the existing damage. Through X-rays, 3D images, and other techniques, he will assess and be able to offer you recommendations for how to eradicate the decay, whether that is through a root canal or another option he offers. Don't let the decay progress anymore; schedule your appointment today!

Meticulous and Precise

Your Decayed Tooth Procedure

Dr. Gankin will numb the area around the tooth being worked on in order to reduce pain during a root canal procedure.

After numbing the site, the infected or inflammatory pulp is extracted from the tooth. The tooth is then meticulously cleaned and disinfected before being sealed to avoid further infection. Sometimes the decay progressed beyond what a root canal can offer. In that case, an apicoectomy or a tooth extraction may be the best option to relieve the pain and prevent the spread of infection.

Combat Harmful Bacteria

Decayed Tooth Recovery and Aftercare

The recuperation period after a root canal operation is often less than a week. You may feel discomfort for a few days, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter drugs. After a root canal, taking care of your mouth is essential. It's important to use an antibacterial mouthwash and practice good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing on a regular basis to combat bacteria. If you have a temporary filling and have not yet gotten your permanent crown, you should also avoid chewing on the treated tooth.

Decayed Tooth Frequently Asked Questions

Will insurance cover my decayed tooth treatment?

Yes. How much will depend on your plan, but most commercial insurance companies will cover treatment for a decayed tooth.

Can I eat after my decayed tooth treatment?

Yes. But you should wait until the numbness wears off. It usually takes a few hours for the anesthesia to wear off before the normal sensation is restored. Eat soft foods such as spaghetti, mashed potatoes, and yogurt for the first few days. The next step is to introduce solid foods as your self-assurance increases gradually.

Decayed Toothin Port St. Lucie, Florida