Many people hear the words “root canal,” and they instantly cringe, even if they have never had the procedure themselves!
Root canals are often feared and misunderstood. However, many myths about root canals are simply not true. In this post, we will bust some of the most common myths about root canals and explain what the procedure actually entails.
What is a Root Canal, Exactly?
A root canal is an extremely common dental procedure used to treat severely damaged or diseased teeth by removing infected pulp tissue. This procedure relieves pain, treats infection, and preserves the tooth structure.
Top Root Canal Myths
Root canals have a notoriously bad reputation. But we are here to dispel some of these myths so that if you need a root canal now or in the future, you can breathe easier.
Myth #1: Root canals are painful.
This is probably the most common myth about root canals. In reality, root canals are no more painful than a regular dental filling. And modern dental techniques, such as laser dentistry, make root canal treatment virtually pain-free.
In fact, many people report that they feel relief after the root canal is complete, as the pain from the infected tooth is gone. That’s right; often, patients feel that a root canal treatment actually relieves their tooth pain.
Myth #2: Root canals are risky.
There is no evidence to suggest that root canals are dangerous. In fact, they are a very safe and common procedure. The risk of infection is very low, and there is no risk of spreading the infection to other parts of the body.
Myth #3: Root canals are not necessary.
This is simply not true. If a tooth is infected, it will eventually need to be treated, or it could lead to more serious problems, such as an abscess or tooth loss. An abscess can even lead to a life-threatening infection. Root canal treatment is very often the best way to save an infected tooth.
Myth #4: Root canals are expensive.
The cost of root canal treatment can vary depending on the location and the dentist. However, it is usually comparable to the cost of other dental procedures, such as crowns or fillings. If you do have dental insurance, a root canal is typically covered, at least in part, as a medically necessary procedure.
Myth #5: Root canals will make my teeth weak.
Root canal treatment does not weaken teeth. In fact, it can actually strengthen teeth by removing infected tissue and filling the tooth with a crown or filling. A mature tooth does not require living pulp, so if the tissue is removed, the tooth will survive. In fact, the goal of a root canal over other treatments is to preserve the tooth.
Myth #6: A root canal takes a long time.
Root canal treatment takes about an hour to complete. The procedure and the recovery are both pretty quick. You can return to work the next day. But keep in mind you may experience some pain and swelling after the procedure, but this should go away within a few days.
Do You Need a Root Canal?
If you are considering root canal treatment, it is important to talk to your dentist about any concerns you may have. Still anxious about treatment? We offer sedation options to make the process even easier.
If you have a toothache that does not go away, or if you have any other concerns about your teeth, be sure to reach out to our office ASAP. A root canal may even alleviate your pain, and treatment can save your tooth and prevent more serious problems.