Most of your fear regarding root canal treatment is based on what you hear from others’ experience. Even before you go for the procedure, you may be demotivated by things others say, like the treatment is painful or it doesn’t help in the long run. These are nothing but simply some myths surrounding the root canal treatment. A root canal treatment is usually needed when your tooth is infected and the tooth nerves are damaged. It’s aim is to help you save your natural tooth. In this article, we’ll bust some common root canal myths that stop you from reaping the benefits of this restorative procedure.
Myth 1. Root canal is painful
One of the biggest misconceptions regarding the root canal treatment is that it is extremely painful. Severe dental infection may cause pain in the tooth. The root canal treatment repairs the damage, disinfects the tooth, and thus, relieves you of the pain. The procedure is also painless. Anesthesia is injected in the infected area to numb it. You will not feel anything during the procedure. After the procedure, a normal amount of pain can be expected, which can be relieved with over the counter pain medications.
Myth 2. Root canal causes illness
It is a common root canal myth that it puts you at a higher risk of developing a wide range of illnesses, such as liver or heart disease. The myth is not true, as during the procedure, your dentist uses tools and techniques to safely disinfect your tooth to minimize the risk of related illness and diseases. Tooth infection and gum diseases have been linked to heart problems. Root canal treatment eliminates the bacteria from the infected tooth root that eventually improves your oral and overall health.
Myth 3. Root canal benefits are temporary
With proper oral care at home and regular dental visits, the benefits of root canal treatment can last for a long time. In this treatment, the infected tooth is restored with the final restoration, usually a crown to help protect your natural tooth from any further damage. Plus, dentists provides you with care tips, which if followed, will help you reap benefits offered by root canal for a longtime.
Myth 4. Wait till it hurts to get a root canal
Skipping a root canal treatment because you do not have any toothache can be harmful. When the tooth nerves get infected and die, you no longer feel pain. Since the infection still persists, you need to get a root canal done to avoid damaging the surrounding teeth and gums. Tests, such as temperature testing and vitality tests are done to examine the depth of decay and confirm if root canal is required. Ignoring a root canal treatment can result in severe bacterial infection or tooth abscess and even tooth/bone loss. It can also result in tooth extraction.
It is recommended to pay a visit to your dentist if you sense any symptoms of severe cavity instead of accepting these common root canal myths. If you want to know more about root canal treatment or think you need one, you can contact us at Signature Smilez Family Dental.