I specifically choose a holistic dentist because I wanted to do things naturally. Yet, when I got a toothache, he is suggesting a root canal treatment. Can’t I just treat the infection with oils?

Brianna

Dear Brianna,

It’s great that you try to do things in a natural and healthy way for your body. Believe it or not, that’s what your holistic dentist is trying to do as well. Dental infections are a little different from other types of infections. Oils won’t work. Antibiotics won’t even work. The infection has to be physically removed by a dentist, hence the root canal treatment.

This is because the infection causes the pulp of the tooth to die. When that happens, there is no blood flow left which doesn’t allow any medication to reach the infection. That is why the dentist has to remove the infection with a root canal treatment. This completely removes the infection while enabling you to save your tooth.

Alternative to a Root Canal Treatment

The only real alternative to a root canal treatment, once a tooth is infected, is to extract the tooth. This will require you to also get the tooth replaced. Even if the tooth isn’t visible when you smile, you’ll need to replace it. If you don’t, the other teeth will drift and tip into the empty space. This causes bite problems which can lead to more serious issues, such as TMJ Disorder.

If you decide to go this route, you’ll want a good tooth replacement option. The top two options are a dental implant or a dental bridge. Both of these are invasive. The implant requires surgery. The bridge requires you to grind down the two adjacent teeth in order for them to have dental crowns.

Never Put Off Treatment for a Tooth Infection

I don’t want you to put off treatment. I know it’s tempting when you are facing a treatment you aren’t keen on. But, tooth infections are dental emergencies. The infection will continue to spread. Some spread rapidly and become life-threatening.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.