How to Avoid a Root Canal

In a few words, stop smoking! Infection of a tooth’s dental pulp is the most common cause of the need for a root canal treatment.  A recent study has shown that men who smoke cigarettes have almost twice the risk of having s root canal, compared to men who never smoke. This was based on a study of over 800 men who were followed for up to 28 years. Those who had smoked for more than 12 years were most likely to have a root canal. There wasn’t any data on women, but there’s no reason to think the risk wouldn’t be the same.

It’s not quite clear why smokers are at increased risk. It may be that smoking makes it harder to fight off infections, it increases inflammation, or it disturbs the blood supply to the teeth, lowering oxygen levels. So, there’s another reason to give up the weed.