Root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood dental procedures, often associated with pain and discomfort. However, with advancements in dental technology and anesthesia, root canal therapy has become a relatively pain-free procedure, primarily aimed at relieving pain rather than causing it.
Myth 1: Root Canal Therapy is Painful
Fact: Modern root canal treatments are no more painful than having a filling. The discomfort experienced in the period leading up to seeking dental care is often relieved by the procedure.
Myth 2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth
Fact: Saving your natural tooth, if possible, is the best option. Root canal therapy has a high success rate and teeth treated with this procedure can last a lifetime.
Myth 3: Root Canal Therapy Causes Illness
Fact: This myth is based on long-debunked research from the early 1900s. There is no valid, scientific evidence linking root canal-treated teeth and disease elsewhere in the body.
Myth 4: Root Canal Therapy is a Lengthy Process
Fact: Most root canal treatments can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of the tooth and personal circumstances.
Myth 5: The Benefits are Temporary
Fact: With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last as long as natural teeth.
Root canal therapy is a valuable dental procedure that relieves pain and saves teeth. Understanding the facts can help alleviate any unnecessary anxiety and help you make informed decisions about your dental health.