If you’re one of the millions of people who experience tooth pain, then you may be wondering what your treatment options are. One common solution is root canal therapy. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about this procedure. In this blog post, we will explain what root canal therapy is and when it is necessary. We’ll also dispel some of the most common myths about root canals. So don’t fear the root canal! Read on to learn more about this common dental procedure.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then filling and sealing the tooth. Root canal therapy is usually performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in treating the inside of the tooth).
Root canal therapy is often necessary when the nerves or blood vessels in the tooth become damaged or infected. This can happen due to a deep cavity, a crack or chip in the tooth, or repeated dental procedures on the same tooth. If left untreated, an infected tooth can cause severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss.
Root Canal Myths
Root canal therapy is a common procedure, and it is usually successful in saving the tooth. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about root canals. Let’s dispel some of the most common ones:
Myth #01: Root canals hurt.
Many people believe that root canals are painful. However, this is not true! With modern technology and anesthesia, root canal therapy is usually no more painful than having a cavity filled. In fact, the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing is likely due to the infection or decay in your tooth, not the root canal procedure itself. Since root canal therapy removes the infection inside your tooth, this procedure actually helps to alleviate your pain and discomfort.
Myth #02: Root canal therapy makes you sick.
Another common myth is that root canal therapy can make you sick. This myth started all the way back in the 1920s and was disproved by the 1950s. However, some people still perpetuate this myth. The procedure involves removing the infected tissue from your tooth, which helps to improve your overall health. Root canal treatment actually helps to prevent further infection and illness.
Myth #03: Root canal therapy removes the tooth roots.
This is another misconception about root canals. The procedure does not remove the tooth roots. Instead, it removes the damaged and infected tissue from inside the tooth, specifically from the pulp chamber and root canals. The roots of your tooth are still intact after a root canal. In fact, the structure of the tooth remains after a root canal, however there is no longer tissue inside the root.
Myth #04: I don’t need a root canal because I feel no pain.
Just because you’re not experiencing pain does not mean that you don’t need a root canal. Remember, the nerves in your tooth may be damaged or infected, even if you don’t feel any pain. If you have a deep cavity, a crack or chip in your tooth, or repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, you may need a root canal even if you’re not in pain. In these cases, it is best to have a root canal before the pain starts so you can forego tooth pain altogether.
Myth #05: Teeth usually need to be extracted after a root canal.
This is not true! In most cases, root canal therapy is successful in saving the tooth and preventing the need for extraction. In fact, your dentist will typically prioritize preserving your natural teeth. However, there are some instances where the tooth may need to be extracted even after a root canal. This is usually due to extensive damage or infection. In these cases, root canal therapy can fail and your dentist may recommend extraction. Unfortunately, the longer you wait to get a root canal, the more likely it is that the affected tooth will need to be extracted.
Myth #06: There is no sensation in the affected tooth after a root canal.
This is another myth about root canals, since the tooth’s nerve is removed during the procedure. After a root canal, you will no longer experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. However, you may still feel some sensation in or around the affected tooth. This is because the ligaments and tissues around the tooth are intact and can still feel biting pressure. Additionally, the roots of your tooth are still intact, so you may still feel some sensation.
Myth #07: I don’t need to visit the dentist after having a root canal.
This is not true! After a root canal, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it until it heals. Once the tooth heals, a permanent crown will need to be placed to provide long-term protection. This means that you will need to attend regular follow-up appointments after your initial procedure. Even after a successful root canal, it is important to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This helps to ensure that your tooth remains healthy and does not become infected again. Regular dental exams and cleanings can also prevent the need for future root canal therapy on other teeth.
In Conclusion
In this blog post, we have explained more about root canal therapy and dispelled some of the most common myths about root canals. Root canal therapy is a common and successful procedure for treating damaged or infected teeth. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your tooth, it is important to see your dentist. They will be able to determine if you need a root canal or other treatment. Remember, root canal therapy is usually no more painful than having a cavity filled. With modern technology and anesthesia, the procedure is usually quite comfortable. So don’t let the myths stop you from getting the dental care you need!
