Root canals have long been a topic of fear and confusion. Many people assume that they must be painful and complicated procedures. Still, they are no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Despite modern advances in root canal technology, myths about root canals persist. In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the most common myths about root canals and setting the record straight.
Tooth Pain Often Leads to Root Canal
This is a common myth, but it’s not necessarily true. Various factors, including decay, infection, trauma, or a crack, can cause tooth pain. In some cases, a root canal may be necessary to treat the pain, but a root canal is not always the answer. Your dentist will assess your situation and determine if a root canal is the best option.
Root Canals are Painful
This is a myth that has been around for a long time. While root canals can be uncomfortable, they are not nearly as painful as many believe.
In fact, root canals are often used to relieve pain and discomfort caused by an infected or damaged tooth. During a root canal, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area, so you will not feel any pain.
Root Canals are Expensive
The cost of a root canal can vary depending on the individual situation, but it is generally less expensive than having the tooth extracted. In most cases, root canals are covered by dental insurance, so you may not have to worry about paying out of pocket.
Root Canals Damage Other Teeth
This is a myth that is simply not true. Root canals are a safe and effective way to treat an infected or damaged tooth, and they do not damage other teeth. In fact, root canals can help to protect your other teeth from further damage.
Tooth Extraction is Better Than Root Canal
No, this is not true. While tooth extraction may be necessary in some cases, root canal treatment is often the preferred option because it can save the tooth and protect it from further damage. Root canals are also typically less expensive than tooth extraction and can allow you to keep your natural teeth for longer.
Root Canals Can Cause Illness
No, this is not true. Root canals are a safe and effective procedure that does not cause illness. The bacteria that can cause illness is already present in the mouth, and root canals are designed to remove the infected tissue from the tooth and keep it from spreading to other body parts.
What to Expect From a Root Canal
A root canal is a dental procedure to remove the infected tissue from the inside of a tooth and seal it off to prevent further damage. During the procedure, your dentist will use a special instrument to clean out the inside of the tooth and remove any damaged tissue.
The area will then be filled with a special material to protect the tooth from further infection. After the procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort, but this should subside over time.
To Sum Up
Root canals are a common procedure that are essential in saving teeth from further decay. Despite its reputation, root canals are not painful and in fact, can alleviate pain from an already infected tooth. Furthermore, root canals do not cause illness or illness-like symptoms or require multiple visits. With the advancements in modern dentistry, root canals can be done in one visit with minimal discomfort. Root canals are a safe, effective and efficient means of restoring the health of a tooth and should not be feared.
Work with the best root canal dentist today. Manassas Smiles offers complete dental services. Book an appointment now.