For many people, the mere mention of a root canal can induce and spike their anxiety. The myths and misconceptions surrounding this common dental procedure have contributed to dental anxiety for countless people with troubled teeth. Our experienced endodontic team wants to help you by setting the record straight and easing your dental fears. Would you believe that root canals are not really the nightmare they’re often made out to be? The fact is, they can be a necessary and painless step toward saving a damaged tooth. Today we’re debunking these myths and exploring the truth about root canals to help you approach this procedure with clarity and confidence.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Intensely Painful
One of the widespread misconceptions surrounding root canals is the belief that they cause extreme pain. The truth is actually the opposite! Thanks to a combination of modern dental techniques and advancements in anesthesia, today’s root canal procedures are virtually painless. Our endodontist soothes your discomfort by effectively using local anesthesia to numb the problem area thoroughly. You may experience some mild discomfort, but this is generally on par with having a regular filling done.
Myth #2: Root Canals Take Forever
Another misconception making the rounds is that root canal procedures are lengthy and time-consuming. In reality, most root canals can be completed in just one dental appointment. Our endodontist removes the infected or damaged pulp from your tooth’s interior and seals it to prevent further infection. With advancements in endodontic technology, we can work more efficiently, reducing the time you spend in the dental chair.
Myth #3: Root Canals Are Ineffective
Some still believe that root canals are not effective and that tooth extraction is a better solution for them. This is far from accurate. Saving your natural tooth through a root canal is almost always the preferred choice. Natural teeth are usually better for chewing, biting and maintaining jawbone health compared to artificial replacements like dental implants. These days, root canals have a high success rate with the ability to preserve your healthy smile for years to come.
Myth #4: Root Canals Cause Illness
There’s a historical myth that suggests root canals can lead to systemic illness. This misconception stems from outdated and debunked research. Modern research has found no link between root canals and systemic health issues. In fact, root canals help eliminate the infection that could lead to more significant health problems if left untreated, becoming an immediate threat to systemic health.
Myth #5: You Don’t Need a Root Canal if You’re Not in Pain
Oddly enough, not all tooth issues come with severe pain. Some people avoid seeking treatment because they don’t experience discomfort. Unfortunately, the absence of pain does not mean your tooth is healthy. Dental issues can often be asymptomatic until they reach an advanced stage of progression. Getting those regular dental check-ups is essential to spot developing problems in the earliest stages so you can fix the issue with a root canal as needed.
Questions? Give Us a Call!
We hope that the idea of a root canal no longer fills you with dread. With advancements in dentistry, our endodontic team can use the latest dental technology, pain management techniques, and our understanding of endodontics to make your root canal procedure more comfortable and efficient than ever before. Don’t let dental anxiety hold you back from seeking the treatment you need. Give our team a call if you have any questions about a problem tooth in your smile, we are here to soothe your fears and restore your oral health!
