5 Myths About Root Canals, Debunked!

Have you recently learned from your dentist that you need to get a root canal? Root canal therapy is one of the most feared dental treatments. This is because countless forms of misinformation has led patients to believe that this treatment is incredibly unpleasant to undergo. There is a range of other falsehoods about root canal therapy that have spread like wildfire. Continue reading as we debunk five of them.

Myth #1: The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy Are Temporary

One common myth about root canals states that the benefits of this treatment are only temporary. Fortunately, this is untrue. Root canal therapy offers a reliable, long-term solution for teeth that have been severely damaged by infection.

First, your dentist will remove the infected portion of the tooth. They will then clean it and fill it with a biocompatible material. Finally, the tooth will be sealed with a dental filling or crown. This will prevent further damage and help the tooth retain its function and structure. As long as you follow your dentist’s post-op instructions, you’re unlikely to need root canal therapy in the future.

Myth #2: Root Canal Therapy Hurts

One of the reasons why people are so scared of undergoing root canal therapy is because they think it will be incredibly painful. But, with modern dental technology, root canals are virtually painless. In fact, many patients say that they aren’t much worse than having a large cavity filled.

Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area before beginning the treatment. This will prevent you from feeling any pain or discomfort throughout the procedure. You can also ask them about dental sedation if you need a little extra help relaxing.

Myth #3: You Only Need a Root Canal If You’re in Pain

Discomfort or pain are common symptoms of a tooth infection, but just because you don’t feel these things doesn’t mean that you don’t need root canal therapy. In some cases, this may even be a sign that the tooth has been more severely damaged than you think. This may mean that the infection destroyed the nerves and the tooth, causing it to die. This is why prompt treatment is necessary.

Myth #4: Root Canals Make You Sick

This myth is based on outdated research performed in the 1920s. though it’s a common misconception that undergoing root canal therapy may cause you to fall ill, this is fortunately not the case. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), no scientific evidence points to root canal treatment being linked to diseases or illnesses.

Myth #5: Tooth Extractions Are Better Than Root Canals

Your dentist will always do what they can to save a damaged tooth. Tooth extractions are only done as a last resort since they tend to be more expensive and time-consuming. It’s always best to save the tooth when possible.

About the Practice

Chester County Dental Arts is led by Dr. Mark Simeone, Dr. Ronni Bruck, and Dr. Sara Raja. They administer various high-quality treatments to dental patients in Coatesville and the surrounding communities to keep their smiles healthy and bright. They also offer root canal therapy to repair damaged teeth and get your smile back on the right track. Call Chester County Dental Arts at (610) 383-1600 or visit their website to learn more about root canal therapy or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Simeone, Dr. Bruck, or Dr. Raja.