While it’s never a dentist’s first option, root canal therapy may be required if tooth infection becomes severe. Before the operation, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics. However, it can be challenging to understand why they chose to take his measure.  The guide below explains why you might need root canal therapy and how antibiotics can help you prepare for the procedure.

Why Are Root Canals Necessary?

Beneath the hard enamel of your teeth lies a soft, sensitive dental pulp that contains several nerve endings. If bacteria get past the outer barrier because of cavities or cracks, they can cause pain and infection. To prevent a full tooth extraction, a root canal can be performed, allowing the dentist to remove the infected tooth pulp and seal the tooth to prevent bacteria from entering in the future. In some cases, a round of antibiotics will be necessary to protect vulnerable patients who could be compromised during the procedure.

How Do Antibiotics Help?

If you have a compromised immune system, a root canal without prior antibacterial treatment, known as antibiotic prophylaxis, can put you at risk of bacteria getting into the bloodstream. Antibiotics may also be required if the infection has reached a peak and threatens to move to other areas, such as the brain. Additionally, an excessively swollen area can be challenging to administer anesthesia to. Without reducing the swelling, a dentist would have a hard time conducting painless root canal therapy.

However, antibiotics are not enough to resolve the problem. A round of antibiotics may be able to kill the current infection, but the source that caused it, whether a cavity or a crack, can readmit bacteria in the future, leading to similar problems. Antibiotic treatment combined with root canal therapy is your best bet for consistently healthy teeth and gums.

Are you looking for a dental professional who can help you cultivate a healthy, beautiful smile? Total Health Dentistry in Cold Spring, KY, can help. Led by Dr. Rachel E. Gold, they’re committed to providing high-quality cosmetic, pediatric, and preventative dentistry. They also approach dental health with a whole-body perspective and are skilled at recognizing illnesses in other parts of the body that manifest in the mouth. To learn more about root canal therapy, visit their website, or call (859) 441-1230 today to schedule an initial appointment.