Myth Busters: 8 Common Myths about Root Canals

Root canals are often associated with pain and discomfort, but this common dental procedure is a crucial tool in saving your natural teeth. In this post our aim is to debunk some common misconceptions and show you exactly how root canals work to save teeth.

Myth 1: Root Canal Treatment is Painful

One of the most common myths about root canal treatment is that it is extremely painful. However, the reality is that with modern anesthetic techniques and technologies, a root canal should be no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. In fact, root canal treatment actually relieves pain by removing the source of infection or inflammation.

Myth 2: A Root Canal Kills the Tooth

While it’s true that the living pulp inside the tooth, which includes nerves and blood vessels, is removed during a root canal, this does not “kill” the tooth. The tooth continues to be nourished by surrounding tissues and can function normally for a lifetime with proper care and protection, such as a crown following the treatment.

Myth 3: It’s Better To Extract A Tooth Than Have A Root Canal

Saving your natural teeth should always be the first choice when possible. A natural tooth typically functions better than an artificial tooth and can potentially last a lifetime. A root canal treatment makes it possible to preserve the natural tooth, thereby maintaining proper biting force and sensation, and reducing the need for further dental work.

Myth 4: Root Canal Treatment Causes Illness

There is no scientific study proving that root canal-treated teeth lead to disease elsewhere in the body. A root canal is a safe and effective procedure that eliminates the infection from the tooth, prevents reinfection of the tooth and saves the natural tooth.

Myth 5: Root Canal Treatment Is Not Usually Successful

Root canal treatment has a very high success rate. Many root canal-treated teeth last a lifetime. The most important thing to do to make a root canal last as long as possible is get the tooth properly restored after the root canal treatment, typically with a crown, and maintain good oral hygiene.

Myth 6: Only Endodontists Can Do Root Canal Treatment

With modern tools and technology, many experienced general dentists have started doing root canal procedures. In fact, you will be charged more if you visit a specialist – an endodontist in this case – than if you go to a general dentist. However, not every general dentist does Root Canal Treatment. Read online reviews and call the dental office ahead to make sure that the dental office has expertise in doing Root Canal Treatment.

Myth 7: Root Canal Treatment Involves Removing The Root Of The Tooth

Root Canal Treatment involves removing the pulp from the tooth, and sealing the root canals. The roots of the tooth remain intact.

Myth 8: Root Canal Treatment Is Only Needed If I Have A Toothache

While a toothache is a common symptom of infection, infection can spread without a toothache. It is important to go to the dentist regularly for cleaning and consultation. Your dentist or endodontist can detect infection and can guide you on whether Root Canal Treatment is needed or not.

Conclusion

Far from being something to fear, root canals are an essential tool for dentists to help save infected teeth. They relieve pain, preserve your natural teeth, and contribute to better oral health. By understanding what a root canal is and how it works, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and be confident that you’re taking the best possible care of your smile.