Did your dentist say that you needed a root canal? If you’ve never had one before, you probably began scouring the internet for information about this procedure the second you got home. However, you’ve got to be careful – it’s full of unreliable sources and dangerously inaccurate information. Luckily, we’re here to put some of those common misconceptions to rest. Read along as we debunk five common root canal myths.
It’s Only Necessary If You’re in Pain
False! If you allow decay to go untreated for too long, it can cause the tooth and its nerves to die, meaning you’ll no longer feel pain. However, just because you’re not in pain doesn’t mean you don’t need a root canal. It’s still necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to the gum and jawbone. Choosing not to get root canal treatment can lead to tooth loss and (in more severe cases) bone loss.
Root Canal Therapy is Painful
Many patients fear root canal therapy because they’re worried the procedure will hurt. Although that may have been true several years ago, advanced technology and modern anesthetics have made the treatment much more comfortable. In fact, most people say it feels similar to getting a cavity filled! Because tooth pain is associated with progressive and destructive decay that has reached the root, you can look forward to feeling relief after your root canal.
It Can Cause Illness
While searching the web for information, you probably came across the myth that root canals cause illness. It’s based on poorly designed and long-since debunked research that took place almost a century ago. To this day, there is no valid scientific evidence linking root canal treatment to disease elsewhere in the body.
The Benefits Are Temporary
Contrary to popular belief, the benefits of root canal therapy are long-lasting. Not only can they relieve a patient’s toothache almost immediately, but they preserve the affected tooth indefinitely. Of course, the final restoration is crucial for long-term, successful results. A quality dental crown combined with proper at-home oral care can ensure your tooth lasts a lifetime!
Extraction Is a Good Alternative to Root Canals
A tooth extraction should only be considered if all other options have been exhausted. Preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible will always be the ideal solution. After all, there is no adequate substitute for natural teeth! If root canal therapy is a viable option for you, you should most certainly go through with it. Not only does it allow you to keep your natural tooth, but it’s cost-effective compared to other solutions.
After debunking these root canal myths, you should feel calmer and more confident when you return for your appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the procedure, don’t hesitate to contact your dental team. They’re always more than happy to help!
About the Practice
At Distinctive Dentistry, we strive to create a comfortable and relaxing environment where all patients feel welcome. Our team of highly trained specialists and dental professionals will always go the extra mile to ensure you receive the best treatment possible. If you have any questions about your upcoming root canal, we’re more than happy to answer them for you and give you peace of mind. Visit our website or call (770) 445-6606 to speak to a member of our team.
