If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal, you might be quite nervous or uneasy. While this is normal, it can also be founded on myths and exaggerations. It’s imperative to separate myth from fact so that you can have truthful information to make the best decisions about your dental care.
Myth 1: Root Canal Treatment Is Painful
Thanks to modern technology and advanced anesthetics, undergoing a root canal today is no more painful than getting a cavity filled. In fact, the opposite can often be true because the procedure alleviates the severe pain caused by a toothache, which is often due to damaged or infected tissue inside the tooth. During a root canal, an endodontist removes this tissue, effectively resolving the pain. Endodontists also focus on pain management, ensuring the process is quick, comfortable, and stress-free.
Myth 2: Root Canal Treatment Causes Illness
Claims that root canal treatment leads to illness or systemic diseases are unfounded and based on discredited research from nearly a century ago. These outdated studies, conducted before modern medical advancements, have been thoroughly debunked. Current scientific evidence shows no link between root canal treatments and conditions like cancer or systemic diseases. On the contrary, research indicates that patients with multiple endodontic treatments had a 45% reduced risk of cancer.
Myth 3: It’s Better to Pull a Tooth Than Have Root Canal Treatment
Whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is the best choice. Natural teeth are superior to artificial replacements in both function and appearance. Root canal treatment has a high success rate, and many teeth treated with this procedure can last a lifetime. In contrast, extracting a tooth and replacing it with a bridge or implant often requires additional procedures and can affect neighboring teeth and tissues. Root canal treatment preserves your natural smile and minimizes the need for more extensive dental work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a common dental procedure used to repair a badly decayed or fractured tooth. If a tooth’s pulp becomes infected, your dentist may suggest a root canal to drain the infected pulp and replace it with synthetic material. Left untreated, the pain will get worse, and the gum disease may spread to other nearby teeth, leading to more decay.
How Do You Know If You Need a Root Canal?
Signs you may need a root canal include:
- Swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gums
- Tooth or gum discoloration
- Sensitivity or pain to hot or cold temperatures, even after exposure
- Severe tooth pain with pressure or chewing
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away for further advice.
Root Canals at Howard Levitt DDS Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
At Howard Levitt DDS, we see patients of all ages throughout Brookfield, CT, and surrounding areas. Whether you need a root canal or just a routine cleaning, our professionals are here for you. We make your comfort and ease our number one priority.
Please call our office today at 203-775-2225 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.