Debunking Myths About Root Canals: Facts vs. Fiction
People tend to fear what they don’t understand, so if you are experiencing anxiety at the thought of a root canal, it’s understandable. It’s essential to have the facts when considering a dental procedure. Let’s clarify some root canal myths by separating fact from fiction.
WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?
A root canal is a dental procedure to remove the diseased pulp of a tooth. The goal is usually to eliminate infection inside the tooth. The treatment allows you to save your natural tooth and prevent further bacterial infection.
Inside each tooth is a chamber filled with soft tissue called pulp. When a hole develops in the hard casing of the tooth, it opens this sensitive area up to bacteria. During a root canal, the dentist removes the soft tissue and cleans out the inside of the tooth.
Once the tooth is free of infection, the hard part casing or enamel, is still viable. The endodontist will cap the tooth with a crown and make it functional again.
For most, a root canal is a routine procedure, just like getting a filling. However, the myths surrounding the treatment tend to keep people up at night. Endodontic facts quickly dispel those myths.
MYTH: A ROOT CANAL IS PAINFUL
Modern technology has taken the pain out of root canals. In fact, if you need a root canal, you might already be in pain. The procedure will make you feel better.
The endodontist will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding tissue. You should feel no pain.
MYTH: ROOT CANALS LEAD TO MORE SERIOUS ILLNESS
Root canals treat bacterial infections. People once thought opening up an infected tooth would release the bacteria into the body.
Today, science shows that the bacterial infection in the tooth is normal flora in the mouth. In other words, the mouth is already full of this bacteria and exists without threatening overall health. Your immune system keeps the bacteria population in check.
MYTH: THERE IS NO POINT IN SAVING A DISEASED TOOTH
Once upon a time, the treatment for an infected tooth would be to pull it out. Today, dental professionals understand the importance of saving a natural tooth when possible.
Extracting a natural tooth can change the architecture of your mouth, altering your appearance. Taking that tooth out can also lead to bone loss in the jaw. That can cause gaps in your teeth and make it harder to enjoy the foods you love. A root canal makes your natural tooth functional again.
MYTH: ROOT CANALS TAKE HOURS TO COMPLETE
Typically, root canal therapy takes anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. Sometimes, you may need a second appointment to apply the custom crown. The crown attaches to the natural tooth's root and replaces what is gone.
It is time well spent, though. It is a chance to save your tooth, which is vital for dental health.
Schedule an appointment today with the dental professionals at Great Lakes Dental. We have the training and expertise to evaluate your problem tooth and determine if a root canal is the best option. We will answer any questions about the procedure and explain how it can be comfortable and pain-free.