No one wants a root canal, but you want the best possible results when you need this endodontic treatment. There are many newer breakthroughs in killing bacteria that could linger inside the tooth’s interior and lead to reinfection complications later on. Find out how ozone therapy and other disinfection options can improve your next visit to your cosmetic dentist in Jacksonville.

Reasons You Might Need a Root Canal

Almost anything that allows bacteria to enter the inner pulp of a tooth and its roots can lead to the need for a root canal. There’s no better way to treat serious infections while saving the natural tooth. Common causes for root canals include:

• Trauma to the tooth, such as a crack or chip, that allowed bacteria to reach the roots
• Long-term decay due to an untreated or hidden cavity
• Loss of protective enamel and dentin, which provides part of the root to infection or exposure
• Issues with previous fillings that weren’t completed correctly or that loosened over time
• Abscesses under the tooth roots that aren’t accessible any other way
• Decay that reaches the pulp of the tooth for any reason.

If you remove the tooth instead, you can fill the gaps with dental implants in Jacksonville, FL. However, root canals tend to cost only a fraction of dental implants.

How is Ozone Used During a Root Canal?

Ozone is a gas naturally found in the atmosphere. In some studies, it has a strong antimicrobial effect and may even stimulate faster healing in soft tissues. This means that dental patients who want the best results from their root canal treatments should consider a dentist who offers this kind of therapy. Not all dentists use ozone therapy, and only some are trained to apply it during root canals.

Types of Ozone Therapy Used During Dental Treatments

While ozone gas is easy to apply inside a tooth during a root canal and fills even the tiniest spaces for bacterial control, other options exist. Some dentists prefer to flush with ozonated water, combining classic irrigation cleaning methods with the antimicrobial power of ozone. Both options work well, and your dentist can explain more about their differences.

Benefits of Choosing Ozone Therapy

Ozone is a natural option for disinfecting the teeth and gums during root canals and related procedures. The interior space of each tooth is full of tiny crevices, even after pulp removal and cleaning to smooth surfaces. This means that it’s all too easy for bacteria to hide somewhere and start up a secondary infection while you’re healing up.

There’s no pain or side effects caused by ozone therapy, and few associated risks. It doesn’t add much extra time to the usual root canal procedure and works well with other disinfection methods. If you manage to reduce the bacterial load in your tooth and roots during the procedure, there’s a good chance you won’t need to take further antibiotics, which can affect your body’s microbiome.

Other Options for Disinfection During Root Canals

Choosing a skilled dentist for Jacksonville, FL residents means you’ll get the best advice for treatment success. Depending on the type of root canal you need and the severity of the infection, you may respond best to ozone therapy, traditional disinfection with sodium hypochlorite, or a combination of both. You won’t have to make this decision alone when you can discuss the benefits of each option with your dentist.

Find Out More from Dr. Tiffany Shields of Jacksonville, Florida

If you’re looking for the best in cosmetic dentistry Jacksonville, FL has to offer, look no further than Smiles by Shields. We specialize in holistic dentistry and wellness, offering ozone therapy for root canal patients. Dr. Shields also provides Invisalign in Jacksonville, FL, and other cosmetic services to keep your smile healthy and strong. Please schedule an appointment with us today to experience the difference that skilled and caring dentistry can make in your life.