Root Canal Procedures: Myths Vs. Facts

The minute a dentist mentions a root canal, most patients become very nervous. For decades, root canals have been synonymous with pain. In fact, root canal treatment is one of the most feared dental treatments. Don’t postpone the treatment that you need out of fear. If you’re worried about having this treatment, it’s time to learn the truth. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths surrounding root canal procedures so you feel calm and comfortable in the dentist’s chair.

Myth No. 1 — Root Canal Procedures Are Extremely Painful

The biggest myth surrounding this dental procedure is that it’s tremendously painful. While root canals may have been painful in the past, advances in anesthetics and dental technology ensure that you will feel little or no pain during the procedure. In fact, if you’re dealing with severe tooth pain from the damaged tooth, this procedure will actually resolve the pain.

Myth No. 2 — Pulling the Tooth Is a Better Option

The truth is, it’s always better to save a natural tooth whenever possible. Even with advancements in implants and partials, nothing can completely replace the function and look of a natural tooth. Root canal treatment allows you to save the tooth. What’s more, it’s far cheaper than replacing an extracted tooth with an implant or bridge that requires more treatment time and further procedures. In some cases, a tooth may need to be removed, but if possible, saving your natural tooth is going to be the best course of action.

Myth No. 3 — A Root Canal Makes You Susceptible to Disease

Browse the Internet, and you’ll see some claims that a root canal can make you more susceptible to disease, such as kidney disease and heart disease. This claim happens to be based on poorly done research that was done about a century ago, and science has debunked this myth. No scientific evidence shows that having a root canal will make you more susceptible to disease or illness.

Myth No. 4 — You Only Need This Treatment If the Tooth Hurts

Your tooth doesn’t have to be painful to require root canal therapy. Dead teeth may not cause any pain, but you still may need this procedure to prevent infection in the future. When you have your routine dental checkup, your dentist may find a tooth that is dead or close to dead. Finding the problem and doing a root canal right away can save you from pain and infection in the future. This is one of the reasons it’s so important to keep up with those routine dental checkups.

Myth No. 5 — Root Canal Therapy Only Provides Temporary Benefits

Not only does a root canal procedure relieve toothaches, it also helps preserve the tooth indefinitely. After the procedure is done to remove the pulp of the tooth, a restoration or crown is placed on the tooth to protect it. A well-made crown that fits correctly can last a long time with proper oral care.

Don’t let common myths surrounding root canal treatment keep you from getting the treatment you need to save your natural tooth. If you have any more questions about this procedure, contact your dentist today.