Ahh, the infamous root canal. Oftentimes, when people are told they need root canal therapy, there is instant dread due to the prevalent myths about them. But don’t let fallacies get the best of you and keep you from taking care of your oral health. Your dentist is here to help separate fact from fiction so you can make the right choice for your smile!
Myth #1: Root Canals Hurt
Truth: Root canals help relieve pain
Root canal therapy is performed by dentists to treat an infection of the dental pulp (the inside portion of the tooth where the nerve is housed). Unfortunately, these infections can cause intense toothaches, which may be why people associate the procedure with pain. But once the infected pulp is removed, the pain will be relieved.
With anesthetics and dental sedation, getting a root canal is no more painful than getting a filling.
Myth #2: The Benefits Are Temporary
Truth: Root canals can save teeth for life
It’s a common belief that the effects of a root canal are short-lived and eventually the tooth will need to be extracted. The truth is that it can save an infected tooth from needing to be taken out! By removing the infected parts, cleaning the canal, and filling and sealing the tooth, it will be preserved so you can maintain your natural smile and bite.
If you practice good oral hygiene and maintain your bi-yearly dental checkups, your results will last a lifetime.
Myth #3: Root Canals Make You Ill
Truth: Root canals improve your health
This is a common misconception that you may come across if you search the web (playing “internet doctor” never helps with medical worries). The myth of root canals causing illness is based on outdated research from the 1920s. The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) states there is no scientific evidence linking root canal treatments to illnesses or diseases. Since they remove an infection from a damaged tooth, they’re more likely to improve your overall health than to make it worse.
Myth #4: It’s Better to Get Your Tooth Pulled
Truth: A root canal saves you time and money…and your natural tooth
If your dentist can save your natural tooth, that’s always the best option. Though dental implants and other replacement options are great ways to complete your smile and regain some of your bite power, nothing beats your natural teeth. In all cases, getting a root canal can save you time and money by preserving your tooth.
Receiving news from your dentist that you will need root canal therapy does not have to cause dread. By gaining facts and discarding fiction, you can embrace treatment and be ready for your healthy smile!
About the Practice
Miller & Wolf Family Dentistry provide exceptional care through the expertise of Dr. Paul Miller, Dr. Rudy Wolf, and Dr. Gwen Hooks. Excellent care and treatment during root canal therapy is a top priority with this experienced team of dentists, and they also offer sedation and customized dental crowns. If you are experiencing tooth pain or want to know more about root canals, contact them through their website or call (434) 215-0363.