A root or tooth canal is a deep tooth part containing soft tooth parts, including the pulp, nerves, and blood vessels. An infection in this tooth part is painful and risks the entire tooth's loss. Below are some ways bacteria can reach your root canals and measures to prevent the infection.

Tooth Accidents

Any accident that damages your tooth increases the risk that oral bacteria will reach your tooth root. For example, an accident that splits your tooth breaks the connection of the protective enamel that usually protects the tooth. Once that happens, bacteria can enter through the split and affect deeper tissues of the mouth.

Fortunately, you can do a few things to minimize this risk. For example, wash your hands with soap and water before touching or performing first aid on a damaged tooth. Secondly, you should seek dental treatment as soon as possible. Lastly, maintain good oral hygiene and health to limit the number of bacteria in your mouth.

Untreated Gum Diseases

Gum disease first attacks the gum tissues, as the name suggests. However, if you delay treatment, it can progress to other parts of your mouth, including the deeper tissues. For example, the infection can spread to the tooth root and jawbone.

Ensure you have good oral hygiene to nip your gum disease in the bud. See your dentist for professional cleaning to remove tartar and plaque that can complicate the infection. The dentist may also give you antibacterial mouthwash to fight the infection.

Dental Cavities

Dental cavities develop when tooth enamel parts weaken and erode. The erosion makes it easy for bacteria to penetrate the tooth and affect its deeper parts. You might develop dental cavities if:

• You have poor oral hygiene
• You frequently snack on sugary foods
• You eat or drink lots of acidic foods

Take care of your dental cavities so they don't admit bacteria to your teeth roots. Cavity treatments include:

• Dental fillings
• Fluoride treatments
• Dental crowns

Consult your dentist for the best treatment for your situation, and get all your dental treatments from professional and licensed dentists to minimize risks.

Preventive dentistry, which includes good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations, is the first defense against teeth infections. In addition, consult your dentist when you suspect something is wrong with your tooth. That way, you can prevent infection complications.

Reach out to a dental clinic like Highland Family dental to learn more.