Even if you need a root canal, you may be afraid to get one. A lot of ugly gossip tends to surround this treatment, making it seem less than appealing to many patients. With that said, most of these rumors and stereotypes are downright false; root canals have more upsides than downsides. Your Pensacola dentist can even prove that with solid evidence and facts. So, here are four major myths about root canals and why they aren’t true.
Myth #1: “Root Canals are Painful”
Many claim that a root canal is painful, but this view isn’t correct. The treatment is generally smooth, painless, and easy for today’s patients.
Modern dentists take precautions to ensure your root canal doesn’t hurt. Most notably, they apply topical anesthesia before treatment that numbs the infected tooth. This step ensures you don’t feel any pain from the dentist’s work; the most you’ll sense is just some slight pressure. Even after your procedure, a dentist can offer tips to ease post-care soreness.
Myth #2: “Root Canals Cause Cancer”
The idea that root canals cause cancer has been around for decades. Even so, it’s patently untrue and based on misguided science.
In the early 20th century, Dr. Weston Price argued for a solid link between root canals and cancer. He believed that leaving a canal space without pulp lets bacteria in the tooth cause illness. However, the research he used to make such claims was bogus; it’s been repeatedly debunked by the scientific community. On the contrary, the American Medical Association finds that cancer risk doesn’t increase after a root canal treatment.
Myth #3: “Tooth Extractions are Better Than Root Canals”
Some think tooth extractions are “better” than root canals, with removal work being more effective. Even so, this point doesn’t hold water.
A tooth extraction costs less time and money than a root canal, but it isn’t ideal for your smile. The treatment creates a smile gap that can tilt other teeth, house harmful bacteria, and erode your jaw. On the other hand, a successful root canal saves your tooth and keeps your grin whole and healthy. It also costs less than filling a smile gap with a dental implant.
Myth #4: “A Root Canal’s Benefits are Temporary”
Even if people assume a root canal’s benefits are temporary, they’d be wrong. The benefits of treatment are enduring and long-lasting.
Given proper care, a tooth treated with a root canal will avoid issues for a lifetime. It can continue working and lack aches or pains indefinitely, ensuring your treatment has great results. You just need to protect the tooth’s final restoration or crown, as maintaining it keeps bacteria out of your cavity.
Having read the points above, don’t be fooled by the myths about root canals. See your dentist for this tooth-saving treatment soon!
About the Practice
Patriot Dental is based in Pensacola, FL. Led by Drs. Keith Lisonbee and Dan Henry, our practice takes great pride in its comprehensive and effective dentistry. We offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative dental services, as well as emergency oral treatments. These procedures let us help even the most broken grin thrive for years to come! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (850)-477-1120.