When chewing or tapping on a tooth causes it to feel tender, it may be a sign of “apical periodontitis,” inflammation at the root’s tip that is most often caused by tooth decay. To relieve the pain and treat the underlying infection, patients undergo “root canal” (or “endodontic”) treatment, during which the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected. It is then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material (gutta-percha). After that, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling. This treatment addresses the localized infection and inflammation, but new research reveals that it may also reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, thereby benefiting the heart as well.
Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. These visits are important because the dentist also checks for early signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other potentially serious problems that can only be detected during the visit. To schedule an appointment, please call West Brookfield Dental at 508-867-2777. We offer early morning and early evening appointments to serve your busy schedule. Our office is located at 9 West Main St., West Brookfield.s
P.S. According to Finnish researchers, patients with untreated apical periodontitis were found to be 2.7 times more likely to have acute coronary syndrome than patients with no infection.
