Facts and Myths of Root Canal Treatment

Many people cringe even at the thought of visiting a dentist; however, when dental cavities, infections, and other oral issues cause excruciating pain, these dental visits become inevitable. The dentist can recommend any treatment option, depending on the condition of the affected tooth. If a tooth can be saved, the first option would be a root canal treatment.

A majority of the patients dread at the thought of undergoing this treatment, owing to the myths that are associated with it. They always feel that having the affected tooth removed is a better choice since the extraction process would be quicker, cheaper as well as less painful. Well, let us dispel the facts and myths about the root canal to help you find out whether it is reasonable for you to fear this treatment option.

  • Myth: You will Experience Severe Pain during this Treatment

Most patients go into this procedure, believing that there is an extreme level of pain involved. However, the fact is that a root canal treatment aims at correcting the tooth pain not worsening it. You may experience some tooth sensitivity after undergoing the treatment, but this sensation will wear away since the root of the tooth is cleaned out.

  • Myth: Tooth Extraction is a better option to Root Canal

Fact is that the restored tooth can last a lifetime if the root canal treatment is done well. Most dentists prefer this procedure since it involves saving the remaining tooth. The nerves in the infected pulp tissue are responsible for the throbbing pain and sensitivity to cold or hot foods. However, once the pulp is cleaned out and the canal is sealed, there will be no feeling of such sensations.

  • Myth: Root Canal Procedures are Unsuccessful

Usually, root canals allow patients’ to keep the restored tooth throughout their lifetime. A treated tooth can become re-infected or cracked, but this can be avoided if the treatment was performed with total care and followed up with a proper sealing restoration and crown.

  • Myth: Root Canals Cause Illness

You may stumble upon this information on the internet claiming that if you undergo a root canal, you will most probably become ill or contract a disease in the future. However, this is not true. This myth was based on poorly designed research that was done almost a century ago before advanced medication understood the causes of many diseases. There is no valid and scientific evidence proving that there is a link between root canal treatment and any disease in the body.

  • Myth: Root Canal Treatments require multiple visits to the dentist

Most patients think that tooth extraction is better since it is quicker while a root canal requires several dental visits. However, that is not true. When you opt for an extraction, you’ll certainly need to go back for a dental implant, and this will need several visits to the dentists. Usually, a root canal takes 1-3 visits. Technically, the number of dental visits required to depend on the condition of the tooth.

Bottom Line

It is always a better option to save a natural tooth through root canal treatment instead of having it removed. There are numerous myths about the root canal. Some of them are from the old and outdated procedure, while others are from not having enough information. For more information on root canal treatment or to book an appointment contactor visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group today.

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