If you are one of the millions of people who experience tooth pain, you may be considering a root canal. But before you make your decision, it’s important to know the facts about this treatment. In this blog post, we will dispel some of the myths about root canals and explain what this procedure is really like. Keep reading for more information!
What is a root canal?
Root canal therapy is a treatment used to save a tooth that has been damaged by decay or infection. The procedure involves removing the infected tissue from inside the tooth and then sealing it to prevent future problems. Although root canals have gotten a bad rap over the years, they are actually quite common and usually very successful.
Myth #1: They hurt
One of the most common myths about root canals is that they are incredibly painful. However, this is simply not true! With today’s advances in dental technology, root canal therapy is usually no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. In fact, many people report feeling relief after the procedure is complete.
Myth #2: Root canal therapy makes you sick
Another myth about root canals is that they can make you sick. This is simply not the case. Root canal therapy actually helps to remove the infected tissue from your tooth, which means it can actually help improve your overall health!
Myth #3: Root canal therapy removes the tooth roots
Another common myth is that root canal therapy removes the tooth roots. However, this is not true! The procedure only involves removing the infected tissue from inside the tooth. The roots of your tooth are left intact.
Myth #4: I don’t need a root canal because I feel no pain
Just because you are not currently experiencing pain does not mean that you do not need a root canal. In fact, many people who need this procedure do not experience any pain until the infection has reached an advanced stage. If you have any signs of a pulp infection, you will need a root canal regardless of whether you feel pain or not.
Myth #5: Teeth usually need to be extracted after a root canal
Another myth about root canals is that teeth usually need to be extracted after the procedure. However, this is usually not the case! In most cases, teeth that have been treated with root canal therapy can be saved. Teeth only need to be extracted in the rare case that the infection is so severe it causes a root canal to fail.
Myth #6: There is no sensation in the affected tooth after a root canal
Many people believe that there is no sensation in the tooth after a root canal. However, this is not true! Although the nerve endings are removed during the procedure, you will still be able to feel your tooth. This is because there are nerves in the soft tissues around the tooth roots.
Myth #7: I don’t need to visit the dentist after having a root canal
Many people believe that they do not need to visit the dentist after having a root canal. However, this is not true! It is important to have your teeth checked regularly by a dentist so that any problems can be caught early.
In Conclusion
We hope that this blog post has helped to dispel some of the myths about root canals. If you have any concerns about your oral health, we encourage you to consult with your dentist. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective treatment that can save your tooth!
Dr. Admar holds dual certificates — a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2010 from India and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 2014 from Canada. He is now a full time practicing dentist in Kamloops where he provides a variety of services, including emergency dentistry. Dr. Admar spends hundreds of hours in continued dental education to stay up to date in cosmetic and implant dentistry and he has achieved several advanced qualifications.
