How to find the best Cosmetic Dentist in Boston

Cosmetic dentistry is a level above normal dentistry. A general dentist takes care of your oral health whereas a cosmetic dentist focuses on your smile that eventually leads to improving the appearance of your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry provides higher self-esteem, enhances your visual appearance, and improves the overall quality of your life. Here are a few tips that can help you in finding the best cosmetic dentist in Boston.

Go for Recommendations

The foremost thing to do to find the best Boston cosmetic dentists is to ask your family, friends, and other known ones for recommendations. You may even ask your current dentist who may recommend a more specialized one if they don’t have specific tools for your treatment. It helps you a lot.

Help from Online Reviews

To find the best cosmetic dentist in Boston, online reviews are a big help as these are genuine and come firsthand from the direct clients, patients, and/or visitors. This ensures that you get professional services from the best dentist in Boston. Moreover, you can also post your feedback on their website so that it helps other people as well.

Prepare a List of your Requirements

There are various issues related to teeth so just make a list of the changes you want to make in your smile, and then go to the cosmetic dentist who is best at it with specialization and equipped devices for your work. You can then present your wish list to the dentist for speedy and better treatment.

Compare ‘Before-and-After’ Photos

‘Before-and-After’ photos are one of the reliable pieces of evidence of the dentist’s efficiency and capability. Dentists showcase their work in pamphlets and on websites. Best cosmetic dentist in Boston would show the best modifications. Be vigilant about the originality and beware of any forged photos, scammers, and plagiarism.

Ask for Testimonials

There are various websites that feature people with their reviews on certain businesses. As it comes directly from the patients, it is yet another most reliable source of getting actual reviews of Boston cosmetic dentists. This will give you the best ideas of the dentists, their services, and their offices and will help you to know whether you shall go to them or not.

Don’t forget to check credentials

Any dentist can be called a cosmetic dentist but to find out the best dentist in Boston, you need to check the accreditation by the AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry). It is the world’s largest organization for cosmetic dental professionals and accreditation is granted after completing all the requirements.

Check their educational qualifications

Those dentists who pursue post-graduate training in this field are assumed to possess specialized knowledge and hence, turn to provide you the best services. The dentists who are engaged in various educational programs tend to have more polished skills than their counterparts.

Look at the ‘Years of Experience’

The saying ‘practice makes a man perfect’ goes well in this case too. Look at the time for which the dentists are engaged in this field. This is also a good indication of finding the best dentist in Boston. Educational qualifications and degrees matter a lot but the time period devoted to cosmetic dentistry indicates their practice and polished work.

Conclusion

The aforementioned ones are a few tips to find the best cosmetic dentists in your area and if your search is in Boston, ABS Dentistry is the best dental care center in the city. Apart from being affordable, ABS Dentistry provides a wide range of treatments, including cosmetic dentistry too.

Most Common Dental Problems and How to Fix Them

Practicing proper dental hygiene is more than just ensuring that your teeth are always in their best shape. It is also about keeping your dental health at an optimal level. Dental health can greatly affect your overall health and wellbeing.

Dental problems like cavities and periodontal disease can spoil your ability to speak and eat properly. They can also cause bad breath, pain, and sometimes, headache or fever. These dental problems are often caused by poor dental hygiene.

The adverse effects of dental problems, however, don’t just stop there. You may not have realized it yet, but dental problems pose extreme negative impacts on the other areas of the body and can also increase your risk of certain health conditions including dementia, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory infections, pregnancy complications, and cancer, to name a few.

Before your dental condition causes serious problems, make sure to book an appointment with the best dentist in Boston and have it fixed right away. Here are a few dental problems that need the help of a professional health care provider who practices general dentistry in Boston. Also included here are some ways to fix these most common dental problems

Tooth Discoloration

Tooth discoloration or stained tooth may not cause you pain but it will affect the appearance of your tooth. This dental problem is often caused by smoking and diet.

Apart from regular brushing, visiting a Boston teeth whitening dentist can also help you get rid of your stained teeth. To fix tooth discoloration problems, you can either get cosmetic dentistry treatments like teeth whitening or use teeth bleaching products like toothpaste or strips. These products are known to help improve the color of the teeth.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease or gum disease is an infection of the gums around the teeth that is considered one of the major threats to dental health. It is caused by different factors including genetics, smoking, and poor dental hygiene. The periodontal disease would require the help of a dentist in Boston Ma.

If you suspect having gum disease, you need to call your emergency dentist in Boston at the soonest possible time to avoid complications such as tooth loss.

Dental Cavities

The dental cavity is primarily caused by a biofilm of microorganisms called dental plaque that accumulates, settle, and grow on the surfaces of the teeth. Dental plaque build-up is often caused by different factors including poor dental hygiene, harmful bacteria in the mouth, and frequent intake of foods with high starch or sugar content.

A dental cavity can damage the areas in and around the surface of the affected tooth permanently. It can also cause sensitivity, visible holes, toothache, tooth stains, and pain. The best way to prevent dental cavities is to thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice a day, do proper flossing once a day, and avoid consuming too much starchy or sweet foods and drinks.

Depending on the severity of your cavities, treatment will include either filling or restoration, crown, fluoride treatment, or root canal treatment in Boston. If your wisdom tooth is affected, your dentist will recommend that you undergo wisdom tooth extraction in Boston. Severe cases often require tooth extraction. You can also opt to get bridges or dental implants in Boston to replace a missing tooth.

How Dentists Ensure Safety During the Pandemic

The global novel coronavirus pandemic has brought fear and a lot of uncertainties to our lives. As the number of confirmed cases continues to increase, more and more businesses are also ceasing operation. This world health crisis affected people from all walks of life and has turned the global economy upside down. Among those professionals that are greatly affected by the global pandemic are the Boston cosmetic dentists and other dental health care providers.

During the early stage of the pandemic, many (if not all) clinics offering general and cosmetic dentistry in Boston have been forced to temporarily close their doors and cease operation. Thankfully, after a few months, the World Health Organization and the local governments have issued a go signal allowing dental clinics to resume operation and provide different kinds of general and cosmetic dentistry treatments once again.

Just like any other establishments, dental clinics need to strictly implement precautionary measures to ensure the safety of the patients, dental professionals, and their staff. However, even with the infection prevention and control practices for Covid-19, many patients are hesitant whether or not it is already safe to go to a dental clinic amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Here are some of the things the best dentist in Boston does to ensure safety during the pandemic.

Appointment basis

The operating hours and the number of patients most of the dental clinics offering cosmetic and general dentistry in Boston cater every day are limited. Walk-in patients are also discouraged. If you need to see your dentist, you will have to book an appointment first. By doing this, dental clinics will have more time to disinfect the area after every patient leaves.

Screening

Dental clinics screen all patients for COVID-19 symptoms during appointment booking and upon arrival at the practice. If during the appointment the dentist in Boston Ma find out that you are showing any symptom, you will either be politely asked to schedule a later appointment and get a rapid COVID test in Boston. 

If for instance you already arrived at the dental clinic and you have any symptoms, you will be asked to have your appointment rescheduled. You may also need to undergo Boston COVID testing.

No chaperone rule

Unless you need someone to assist you inside the clinic or to drive you home, coming into the dental clinic with a chaperone is strictly prohibited to minimize risk. 

Teledentistry

Patients with cases that do not require the immediate attention of an emergency dentist in Boston are encouraged to consult their dentists through teledentistry or virtual dental checkups. 

Additional safety measures

Aside from the standard safety measures, dentists need to take extra steps to ensure the safety of the patients and the clinical staff. These additional safety measures are cleaning and disinfecting the tools after every use, regular office disinfection, wearing the right, complete personal protective equipment, and more frequent hand washing.

Limiting dental treatments 

The coronavirus can be spread through droplets or aerosols. You can be infected if you happen to inhale the virus-containing droplets or aerosols expelled by a confirmed COVID-19 positive or if they enter your body through your mouth, eyes, and nose. 

To minimize risks, dental practices are encouraged to limit the types of treatments and procedures they will offer to their patients. Performing aerosol-generating procedures and treatments that involved the use of high-speed dental handpieces, air/water syringes, and ultrasonic scalers is highly discouraged. 

Critical Signs That Will Tell You It’s Time to See a Dentist

Dental health is more than just about having a pretty smile and a perfect-looking set of teeth. More than the aesthetic aspect, oral health is also critical to overall health. Poor dental health can be linked to certain health issues including pregnancy and birth complications, endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, and pneumonia. Moreover, diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease can affect oral health and can cause or exacerbate existing dental problems. To ensure optimal health, you must ensure that your oral health is at its optimum health as well. 

The human mouth is one of the parts of the body where bacteria live and accumulate. The mouth can host approximately 34 to 72 different strains of bacteria. Other people may even have around 700 different varieties of bacteria inside their mouths. Most of these species are harmful, though, and can even help in better food digestion like probiotics. However, an excess amount of bacteria can lead to oral infections like gum disease and tooth decay. 

Regular and proper oral hygiene such as flossing and brushing is one of the best ways to keep those bacteria that dwell inside the oral cavity under control. However, even with proper oral hygiene, dental problems still arise which may call for professional help. 

If you are experiencing any of these signs, it may be time for you to book an appointment with the best dentist in Boston as soon as you can. 

Bleeding gums 

It is not normal for your gums and teeth to bleed especially after flossing and brushing. Bleeding gums could mean that you are experiencing gum disease or periodontal disease. 
Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bone loss and even tooth loss. To prevent the problem from advancing, see your emergency dentist in Boston at once. 

White spots on gums or teeth

If you notice some white spots on your gums, teeth, or both, it is best to consult your dentist as soon as possible. This sign could mean that decay is starting to develop. 

Toothache

Pain can signal that there is something wrong going on inside your mouth. Even if your teeth look completely fine, problems may still arise from within which may cause you to suffer from pain or swelling. 

If the gums and tissues around your teeth hurt, this may signal root infection especially if they are swelling, too. If you suspect a root infection, call the nearest professional who practices general dentistry in Boston right away. 

Sensitivity to cold and hot

Some people have teeth and gums that are normally sensitive to extreme cold and hot temperatures. However, if your teeth and gums are not naturally sensitive and you suddenly experience sensitivity issues, then this may indicate a dental problem. Schedule a visit to a dental clinic to know what causes the sensitivity. 

Your wisdom teeth are causing you pain

Most Boston cosmetic dentists suggest removing wisdom teeth before they can cause any dental issues. But this does not mean that you really have to take them out. Many people live their entire life with their wisdom teeth without any problem. 

However, if yours are starting to cause you discomfort, pain, and repeated infection on the soft tissue located behind the lower last tooth, then you may want to consider calling your dentist in Boston Ma, and have your wisdom teeth extracted.

Wisdom tooth extraction in Boston is also necessary if you have dental disease, extensive tooth decay, tumors, cysts, or fluid-filled sacs, and if the nearby teeth are damaged. 

Teeth Whitening and Bleaching: What Are Your Options?

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments in Boston that can help restore the color of your teeth to their former glory. It can help eliminate stains and transform your yellowish teeth into brighter ones.

There are many reasons why people want to make their teeth whiter. Aside from making your teeth and smile look more pleasing, a set of white teeth can also help boost your self-esteem and confidence. It can also make you look younger and more beautiful.

When it comes to teeth whitening, you have two available options to choose from- do it yourself or at-home care and in-office or in-chair teeth whitening.

In-office or in-chair teeth whitening

In-office or in-chair teeth whitening is done inside a dental clinic and is performed by Boston cosmetic dentists. This option offers excellent results in a short period of time. With in-office or in-chair teeth whitening, a Boston teeth whitening dentist uses an in-office system or bleaching solution that is formulated with around 15% to 43% of carbamide or hydrogen peroxides.

The application of a strong bleaching solution plus the use of heat, light, or the combination of both, can help intensify and accelerate the bleaching process. This allows teeth to get three to eight shades brighter more quickly than when doing DYI teeth bleaching. It will also only take a dentist in Boston Ma a couple of minutes to a little over an hour to complete one session of teeth whitening treatment.

Professional teeth whitening treatments can be expensive. On average, its cost can range from $500 to $1,000. Though quite costly, many people still choose in-office or in-chair teeth whitening treatments because of the dramatic results they offer.

Do it yourself or at-home care

As its name suggests, at-home or do-it-yourself care is a teeth whitening option that often doesn’t require professional help. It can be performed at home. There are a few products that can help you whiten your teeth at home. Most of them, if not all, can be acquired over-the-counter. The most common options are:

• Tooth whitening gels and strips
• Whitening toothpaste
• Tray-based tooth whitening system

Tooth whitening gels and strips

A tooth whitening strip is a thin piece of peroxide-coated flexible plastic. This bleaching product is available in any pharmacy or supermarket and may cost around $10 to $55.

For desirable results, you need to apply the whitening gel and strip at least once a day for 10 to 14 days. Depending on how well you care for your teeth and your oral hygiene routine, the result of this DYI treatment can last for three months or more.

Tray-based tooth whitening

A tray-based tooth whitening product is a tray that looks like a regular mouthguard. The whitening tray is filled with a peroxide-based whitening paste or gel.

Though it is considered an at-home care option, you still need the assistance of the best dentist in Boston. The whitening tray needs to be custom-fitted and supervised by the best cosmetic dentist in Boston. This means you still have to go to a dental clinic.

Whitening toothpaste

Regular toothpaste can help keep your teeth clean and fresh. A tooth whitening toothpaste is an upgraded, special type of toothpaste that can help scrub off stains from teeth. It can make the teeth a shade lighter without using any bleaching agent. Thanks to its chemical or polishing agent content.

Another type of teeth whitening toothpaste is enamel building toothpaste. If you need help with mineralizing your teeth again, one of the best products to use is enamel-building toothpaste. This paste can also help seal off even the smallest cracks and chips in your teeth.

Here’s How to Keep Your Veneers Always Look Their Best

There is nothing more effective in correcting dental problems than getting cosmetic dentistry treatments. Most of those who experience dental problems like misaligned teeth, gaps, and crowding find wearing orthodontic braces helpful. Though braces can effectively fix such issues, you will have to wear them for months to two years. This can make you feel uncomfortable, and embarrassed. Why endure such long months of hassle if there are other ways to correct such dental issues? One faster and more effective solution to gaps, crowding, and misalignment issues that Boston cosmetic dentists recommend is veneer.

Veneer is a popular part of cosmetic dentistry in Boston that can help provide you with a radiant, picture-perfect, and pretty smile. Veneers are custom-made thin shells made from either composite raisin or porcelain. They are attached to the teeth to correct issues like stain, misalignment, chip, and gap. Veneers can’t just enhance your smile but they can also help boost your self-esteem.

However, to ensure that your veneers always look their best and will last longer, you need to take good care of them. Here are some tips from the best cosmetic dentist in Boston on how you can keep your veneers always look beautiful.

Follow the proper way of brushing and flossing

Brushing and flossing can be quite challenging if you have veneers. If you don’t know how to properly brush and floss your teeth or if you do them aggressively or forcefully, you may cause your veneers to crack or break. Also, using abrasive toothpaste can damage the surface of the veneers. Ask your dentist about the frequency and proper way of brushing and flossing around your new veneers.

Don’t chew or bite hard materials

Even the best veneers in Boston that are known for their durability and strength still have the tendency to break or crack when used in chewing or biting hard materials. Instead of putting too much pressure and unnecessary stress on your veneers when chewing hard food items like tough meat, raw apples, hard guava, meat bone, and hard chips, use your molars at the back of your mouth. Also, don’t bite on hard materials like plastic items, pen tops, and bottle caps to avoid breaking the veneers attached to your teeth.

Maintain proper oral hygiene

Just like natural teeth, veneers are also prone to staining and tartar and plaque buildup especially when not cleaned regularly and properly. To prevent staining and buildup of tartar and plaque, you need to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Proper oral hygiene typically includes flossing, brushing, or rinsing with mouthwash at least twice a day or after every meal. While this may be enough, your dentist in Boston MA may provide you with additional pointers.

Never use your teeth as a tool

Regardless of whether you have a veneer or not, it is not a good idea to use your teeth as a tool to open a beer bottle or to twist off a stubborn screw. Doing so will only hurt your teeth and damage your veneers.

Be careful with what you eat

To maintain a healthy body, you need to watch what you eat. More so if you have veneers. You need to be careful with what you eat if you want your veneers to look good and last long. Avoid foods that are rich in acid and sugar as they can be contribute to tooth decay.
Also limit your intake of starchy foods like crackers and pastas, carbonated soda, sugary fruit juices, and acidic fruits like citrus. As much as possible, avoid taking foods and drinks with lots of coloring. Though veneers don’t get stained easily, they are still subject to discoloration. If you eat these food items, make sure to wash them off as soon as possible so they won’t linger longer on your oral cavity and cause decay.

Different Covid Testing Options Available in Boston

The coronavirus pandemic has flipped the world upside down. It made the once lively and active cities seem like a hunted town. The pandemic has altered every aspect of our lives and our community, affecting not only how we live our daily lives but also our security, economy, work, and businesses, to name a few. As the number of positive cases and fatalities increase day by day, people are getting more anxious and fearful. Simply thinking that the people you come in contact with may possibly be a carrier of the virus is enough to make you get worried about you and your family’s safety.

Fortunately, there are ways to know if a person is infected or not. Aside from checking for COVID-19 signs and symptoms, laboratory tests can also help you know if a suspected covid case is positive or not. If you are wondering what these laboratory tests are, we have here two of the most commonly used and most reliable Covid-19 tests available in Boston- the antibody test and diagnostic test.

Diagnostic test

A diagnostic test is a type of Boston covid testing method that tells whether an individual has an active coronavirus infection or not. This method is further classified into different types the antigen tests and the molecular tests.

• Antigen Test

The antigen test, often referred to as rapid test, can detect active infection by looking for any protein fragments specific to the SARS-CoV-2. Unlike the molecular test, the antigen rapid Covid test in Boston delivers faster results but is less reliable. Oftentimes, a molecular test is needed to confirm the results of the antigen test. It has a turnaround time of at least 15 minutes to a few hours. You can get this test from a private hospital or from a public health institution that offers free Covid testing in Boston.

• Molecular Test

The molecular test can detect signs of an active infection such as the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. An example of this test is the RT-PCR or polymerase chain reaction test. This method of Covid testing in Boston yields a highly accurate result. The molecular test is known as the most sensitive way to detect an active infection even if you don’t exhibit any symptoms. The molecular test can’t detect whether or not you had a past infection, though.

The molecular test is done by collecting a sample of the mucus on your throat or nose with the use of a 6-inch specialized cotton swab known as nasopharyngeal swab. The turnaround time for molecular tests is approximately 24 hours to 3 days or longer depending on the demand.

Antibody test

The antibody test, also known as serology test, is a type of test that detects any antibodies that are developed by your immune system when you get infected with COVID-19. This test can identify two kinds of antibodies- IgM (the antibodies that are developed at around 2 weeks) and IgG (the antibodies that are made by the body for around 4 weeks).

The antibody test, also known as serology test, is a type of test that detects any antibodies that are developed by your immune system when you get infected with COVID-19. This test can identify two kinds of antibodies- IgM (the antibodies that are developed at around 2 weeks) and IgG (the antibodies that are made by the body for around 4 weeks).

Common Types of Braces Used in Cosmetic Dentistry

Braces are one of the most effective ways to correct crooked, overcrowded, or misaligned teeth. They are also effective in fixing issues with too much or too little space between teeth. Braces are perhaps one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments used to address such issues. They do not simply help enhance teeth aesthetics and overall smile, but they also help improve the functioning of teeth.

A well-fitted brace can provide teeth with a stable and balanced bite, allowing you to chew more easily and comfortably. Misalignment and aesthetic issues of the teeth which can affect the way you speak or pronounce words can also be fixed by a set of braces. Getting rid of tight or wide spaces between teeth can also make flossing and brushing more effective and easier and at the same time allowing you access to hard-to-reach areas in the mouth.

Whether you want to use braces for fashion purposes or to correct dental issues such as those mentioned above, it is wise to know first the primary types of braces that are often used in cosmetic dentistry in Boston. Below are some of them.

Traditional metal braces

Metal braces are the most commonly used type of braces in general dentistry in Boston, especially during the early days. Traditional metal braces are made with high-grade stainless steel, metal brackets, and thin archwires. The metal brackets are attached to the teeth with the use of cement. The brackets are connected through a thin archwire with the use of tiny elastics called o-rings or ligatures. This will apply pressure on the teeth, causing them to gradually move to the right position or alignment.

The traditional metal braces are now getting more advanced. Today, braces are made lighter, more comfortable, and more fashionable. One innovation in traditional metal braces is the use of heat-activated archwires. This innovation utilizes the body’s temperature and allows the teeth to move faster and with lesser pain and discomfort as compared to the traditional design.

Ceramic Braces

This type of brace is quite similar to traditional braces. The only difference though is the brackets. Ceramic braces have brackets that are made from a ceramic material. Unlike the brackets of the traditional braces, the brackets of the ceramic braces have a similar texture and color as the teeth, making them almost invisible.

Like most traditional metal braces, ceramic braces are often fixed in place. When already fitted, you will be stuck with your braces on until the treatment is completed. You can’t remove them anytime you want by yourself.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are perhaps the least known type of braces. Just like ceramic braces and traditional braces, these braces also utilize wires and brackets. What makes them different is that they are placed inside the teeth.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear, almost invisible removable aligner brace. Though it does not offer the same effects for very severe orthodontic conditions such as the traditional metal brace, the best Invisalign in Boston is effective in addressing less serious teeth malformation and misalignment issues. Used correctly, Invisalign can be twice as effective as traditional metal glasses. Plus, it is also removable, more comfortable to wear, and less noticeable.

The best doctor in Boston recommends Invisalign to patients who are looking for a more flexible treatment option for their teeth alignment issues.

What Services Do General Dentists Offer?

Just like engineers, teachers, doctors, and lawyers, dentists also have different specializations. Pediatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral medicine and pathology, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry in Boston are just some of the dentistry specializations that a dentist may specialize in.

General dentists are those dental professionals who did not undergo additional specialized training after completing dental school and who don’t have specific specialization. Instead of providing specialized services just like dental specialists do, a general dentist in Boston Ma provides regular cleanup and preventive oral care services. Traditionally, they are your go-to professionals when you seek regular dental care. If during a thorough dental examination the general dentists find any oral problem that requires the attention of more specialized treatment, they will recommend you to see a specific dental specialist.

The services offered by a general dentist are uniquely tailored toward oral disease prevention. They provide primary dental care for all ages and they focus more on oral health and hygiene, prevention of diseases, and helping patients avoid the progression of any diagnosed oral condition. Below are some of the services included in general dentistry in Boston.

Preventive oral services

Also part of the preventive oral care services that the best dentist in Boston offers is providing you some detailed instructions on how you can keep your teeth protected, how to avoid decay, and how to improve your oral health and hygiene at home like the proper way of flossing and brushing. If you are suffering from a toothache, the general dentist can help you diagnose and treat the causes of the pain. If needed, your dentist will recommend you to get preventive treatments like sealants and fillings to help prevent any oral problem from advancing.

Restorative Services

If the diagnosis during the general dental checkup shows that something is off, the dentist will recommend that you get additional treatment. These treatments are often part of their restorative services.

Mild cases of cavity often require the removal of tooth decay. After removing the decay and cleaning the affected tooth, it will then be filled with a filling. More serious cases of tooth decay, on the other end, typically require extraction and denture. Other options for restorative oral care are implants, bridges, crowns, orthodontics, and root canal therapy.

Dental cosmetics services

General dental practitioners also offer cosmetic dentistry treatments. Cosmetic dentistry is all about improving your bite, gum health, overall smile appearance, and the aesthetics of your teeth (e.g. shape, size, color, and alignment). For instance, if you have stained teeth that can’t easily be fixed through dental cleaning, you may seek help from a Boston teeth whitening dentist and have your teeth professionally bleached. Dental cosmetic services include but are not limited to teeth whitening, Invisalign braces, dental veneers, enamel bonding, and enamel abrasion.

The general dentists will help ensure that you receive timely and accurate oral health care services. They do not merely help you maintain optimal oral health and hygiene but they also help in the identification and treatment of overall health concerns like diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea.

Root Canal Treatment: Why and How It Is Done?

No matter how hard you try to take good care of your oral health, you can’t be hundred percent sure that you will not experience any dental problems. Also, not all dental problems can easily be diagnosed with just a simple routine inspection done even by the best dentist in Boston like in the case of deep decay. Deep tooth decay is a cavity that is caused when the acid produced by the oral bacteria eats away the tooth. Most often, you only feel the pain when the cavity is already in its advanced stage, or perhaps it has already spread to your other teeth. Left untreated, tooth decay can lead to infection, irritation, or inflammation on the pulp of the teeth which may cause extreme pain.

The pulp is the part of the teeth that houses sensitive nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels. The pulp is contained inside the pulp chamber which is the hallowed part at the center of each tooth. The pulp canal is extended through the roots of the teeth and the surrounding bone as well. The roots of the teeth are consisting of at least one canal.

Decades ago, people believe that the only way to treat deep decay and pulp inflammation is tooth extraction. However, with the arrival of cosmetic dentistry, dental patients are provided with more treatment options. One of which is root canal treatment in Boston.

What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is one of the modern cosmetic dentistry treatments that is designed to treat issues on the pulp as well as to repair and save an infected tooth. This treatment procedure involves the removal of the pulp.

How root canal treatment is done?

Before performing the root canal treatment, the Boston cosmetic dentist needs to carry out a pulp vitality test and root X-ray first. Through these procedures, the dentist can be able to determine whether or not a root canal treatment is needed. Once confirmed, the dentist will then determine the extent of damage and how long will it take to complete the procedure. Most often, it requires one or two 90-minute sessions to complete root canal therapy.

A root canal treatment is done by removing the pulp and the nerve of the tooth. After removal, the root canal is then cleaned and sealed. A root canal treatment can be painful and is often done with local anesthesia.

Why is a root canal treatment needed?

The nerves of the tooth do not significantly affect the function and health of the tooth. Their only function is to help you feel the sensation of cold or hot. As long as the tooth has already come through the gums, it is fine to remove the dental pulp. Without the nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels inside the roots, the tooth can still function well.

An infected, inflamed, or irritated dental pulp can cause extreme pain and discomfort. Left untreated, it will not only cause pain but will as well infect the surrounding tissues and cause an abscess. The inflammation can also possibly spread to other areas including the head, neck, and face. Not only that, an untreated dental pulp can also lead to bone loss around the root’s tip as well as drainage problems.