Root canal treatment is often misunderstood, leading many to avoid it due to myths about pain or safety, which can worsen dental problems. In reality, root canals are effective at saving teeth and relieving pain.
At Enhance Dental Centre, we’re here to debunk these myths and provide clear, accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your dental health. Understanding the facts can give you confidence in your care and ensure a healthier smile.
Myth 1: Root canal treatment is painful
Many people avoid root canals because they believe the procedure is extremely painful. In reality, root canal treatments are designed to relieve pain, not cause it.
During the procedure, your dentist removes the infected tissue inside your tooth, which is the source of your discomfort. Once the infection is gone, you’ll start feeling better. Thanks to local anesthesia, the treatment itself is virtually pain-free, with only minor discomfort for some patients.
While dental procedures in the past may have been painful, modern advancements in technology and anesthetics have made root canals far more comfortable. Severe toothaches caused by damaged tissue can now be effectively and painlessly treated with this procedure.
Myth 2: Root canals are lengthy procedures
Many people believe that root canals are long, drawn-out processes. While they do take slightly longer than a standard filling, most root canals require only one or two visits.
During the first visit, your dentist examines the tooth, removes decay or bacteria, cleans and shapes the root canals, and places a temporary filling. At the second visit, typically one to two weeks later, the temporary filling is replaced with a permanent crown or filling.
The entire process usually takes 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the tooth’s location, the number of canals treated, and any complexities. Thanks to modern dental advancements, most patients are pleasantly surprised by how quick and efficient the procedure can be.
Myth 3: Root canals cause illnesses
Some believe that root canal treatments can lead to illness, but this myth was debunked nearly a century ago. There is no scientific evidence linking root canals to systemic health problems or an increased risk of illness.
On the contrary, root canals improve your overall health by removing decay and infection from inside the tooth and inside your body. By addressing the source of pain and preventing decay from spreading to the gums, bone and surrounding tissues, this procedure helps maintain both oral and general health.
Myth 4: Pulling a tooth is better than a root canal
Some people believe it’s better to extract a tooth than undergo a root canal, but this isn’t true. Removing a tooth is always the last resort. Removing a tooth can lead to complications such as difficulty chewing, shifting teeth, and jawbone loss. When a tooth is missing, nearby teeth may shift into the gap, causing misalignment and the need for additional dental work. Additionally, jawbone loss from missing teeth can make future treatments like implants more challenging.
Patients who have experienced both root canals and extractions often prefer root canals. This procedure not only preserves your natural tooth but also supports better oral health in the long term. Root canals are safe, effective, and designed to save your smile.
Myth 5: No pain, no problem? Think again—this will shock you!
Many people assume that if a tooth isn’t painful, it doesn’t need a root canal—but this couldn’t be further from the truth. A tooth can be severely damaged or infected without causing any pain.
For instance, a pimple-like bump near a damaged tooth, called a fistula, may signal an infection. The fistula drains pus, relieving pressure and masking pain, but the infection remains and requires treatment. Delaying care can allow the infection to spread to nearby tissues, leading to more severe complications.
Some infections cannot be seen or felt, but after careful examination and x-rays, you may discover there is a lingering infection eating at your jaw bone without realizing it. That’s why it’s important to make sure you visit your dentist regularly and update your x-rays as indicated by your dentist.
Myth 6: Root canal results are temporary
Contrary to popular belief, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime with proper care. Maintaining good oral hygiene—brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly—ensures the long-term success of the treatment.
After the procedure, your dentist will place a permanent crown or filling to protect the tooth from bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of reinfection. With these measures, your root canal can provide lasting relief and preserve your tooth for many years.
Myth 7: The root of the tooth is removed
A common misconception is that the root of the tooth is removed during a root canal. In reality, the roots remain intact to anchor the tooth in your jawbone.
During the procedure, your dentist removes the infected tissue (pulp) from the crown and root canals, as well as the tooth’s nerves. This eliminates the source of infection while preserving the structural integrity of the tooth, ensuring it remains firmly rooted in place.
Myth 8: The tooth’s nerves are removed, so it won’t feel pain
A common misconception is that removing a tooth’s nerves during a root canal eliminates all pain. While the tooth will no longer be sensitive to hot or cold, you may still experience some discomfort or soreness around the treated area for a few days.
This temporary sensitivity is part of the healing process. If the pain persists or worsens, consult your dentist for appropriate care to ensure a smooth recovery. Root canals are designed to relieve pain, not cause it, and post-treatment discomfort is usually minimal.
Myth 9: It’s okay to delay a root canal
Delaying a root canal is not advisable. If your dentist recommends the procedure, it’s crucial to act promptly. Waiting can lead to serious complications, such as infections, tooth loss, jawbone damage, abscesses, and even life-threatening conditions like sepsis.
Addressing the problem early helps remove the infection, relieve pain, and preserve your tooth. Prompt treatment not only prevents further dental and health issues but also ensures a quicker recovery and lasting results.
Myth 10: Crowns cause root canals
It’s a misconception that dental crowns cause root canals. Crowns are designed to protect damaged teeth, while root canals address infected or decayed pulp.
In some cases, teeth with deep cracks or cavities may require both a crown and a root canal. Dentists often recommend placing a crown after a root canal to reinforce and protect the treated tooth, ensuring its strength and longevity. Crowns are a safeguard, not a cause of root canal treatment.
How many years can a root canal last?
Teeth treated with a root canal can deliver long-lasting results, often lasting 20 years or more with proper care. Success depends on effective aftercare and the quality of the restorative work, such as fillings and crowns, which protect the treated tooth from damage and reinfection.
With consistent oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and high-quality restorations, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime, preserving your natural smile and dental health.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment has long been misunderstood, but modern dental practices debunk these myths. Misconceptions, such as root canals being painful or ineffective, often discourage necessary care, risking further damage and discomfort.
At Enhance Dental Centre, we provide safe, effective, and comfortable dental treatments to help you preserve your smile. If you have questions or concerns about root canals, our knowledgeable and compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to prioritize your dental health.
<p>The post 10 Root Canal Myths Debunked | #5 Will Shock You! first appeared on Enhance Dental CA.</p>
