Most people would rather do anything than undergo a root canal. Unfortunately, this procedure has an undeserved bad reputation. Root canal therapy is performed to clean out an infected tooth and prevent future problems. In fact, most patients feel significantly better after the procedure.
Knowing the truth about root canals can help alleviate your fears if your dentist recommends this treatment.
Debunking Root Canal Myths
A root canal hurts.
This is a common misconception. The pain associated with a root canal is caused by swelling and pressure from infection or trauma. During the procedure, your dentist removes the damaged pulp (the soft nerve center of the tooth), disinfects the area, and seals it to prevent further infection. Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward, and many report feeling immediate relief.
Root canal therapy takes many appointments.
In most cases, a root canal can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the issue. After the procedure, you’ll typically need at least one additional visit to restore the tooth with an inlay, onlay, or crown.
I only need a root canal if my tooth hurts.
Pain is a common indicator of a problem, but not always. If the tooth root dies, you may not experience any symptoms. Dentists use diagnostic tools like temperature testing and percussion testing to assess the health of a tooth.
The root canal won’t last.
Once a tooth is properly cleaned, sealed, and restored, it can last a lifetime. However, delaying the placement of a crown or proper filling increases the risk of the tooth cracking or breaking. To avoid complications, follow your dentist’s recommendations for completing the restoration promptly.
If you have concerns about root canal treatment or need to schedule an evaluation, contact our office today.
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