Surprising Myths About Root Canals

You may need root canal therapy if your tooth pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This may be caused by a broken tooth or severe dental decay. If the tooth remains untreated, the infection may worsen or spread. In some cases, the tooth will need to be extracted. In most cases, a root canal can preserve your tooth so that it won't need to be pulled. Here are some surprising myths about root canals to speak to your dentist about.

Root Canals Are Time-Consuming

If your tooth needs to be extracted because of a severe infection or decay, your dentist may need to put in an implant to prevent your other teeth from shifting. This can take multiple dental visits before the procedure is complete because the titanium rod needs to graft to your jawbone, which can take a long time.

Many people believe that root canal therapy is a long, drawn-out process that can take months to complete. Root canals typically only require a couple of dental visits. If the condition of the tooth is very bad, you may need to see your dentist one more time. After your treatment, you will not need any follow-up treatments or appointments except for your routine examinations and dental cleanings. 

Root Canals Are Painful

One of the most common myths about root canals is that they are very painful. In actuality, a root canal is almost painless. Root canals actually relieve the severe pain caused by inflamed and infected tooth pulp, which may be where the myth originated.

There have been many advances and improvements in the dental care industry in recent years, and because of this, almost all dental procedures are often virtually painless.

If you are still apprehensive about getting a root canal because you fear that it will hurt, talk to your dentist, who will reassure you that you have nothing to worry about. People who have severe phobias about dental procedures or going to the dentist may be given dental sedation to help keep them calm during their treatments. 

To learn more about the myths surrounding root canal treatments, make an appointment with your general dentist or endodontist. He or she will present you with all of the facts regarding root canal treatments versus getting your tooth extracted. Once you have the information that you need regarding these dental procedures, you will be able to make the choice that is best suited for your personal situation.

For more information, contact a dentist about root canals.