February 13, 2023

Root canal therapy has been one of the most misunderstood dental procedures for many years, leading to several myths and misconceptions that have scared people away from getting the treatment they need. However, with advancements in technology and better patient education, the fear associated with root canal therapy is slowly fading away. This article will discuss five of the most common root canal myths and why they are not true.

Myth 1: Root canal therapy is excruciatingly painful

One of the most prevalent myths about root canal therapy is that it is excruciating. This is not true. Root canal therapy is designed to alleviate pain, not cause it. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, and most patients report feeling only slight discomfort during the procedure. After the procedure, the discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication, and patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few days.

Myth 2: Root canal therapy causes illness and other health problems

Another common myth about root canal therapy is that it causes illness and other health problems. This is not supported by scientific evidence. For over a century, root canal therapy has been a safe and effective treatment performed by dentists to save teeth. The procedure involves removing the infected or diseased portion of the tooth, cleaning the root canal, and sealing it to prevent reinfection. This not only saves the tooth but also helps maintain oral health.

Myth 3: It is better to extract the tooth than to undergo root canal therapy

Some people believe it is better to extract the tooth rather than undergo root canal therapy, but this is not true. In most cases, extracting a tooth is not the best option as it can lead to other dental problems, such as shifting teeth, bite problems, and jawbone loss. Root canal therapy, on the other hand, helps preserve the natural tooth and eliminates the need for more invasive and costly dental treatments in the future.

Myth 4: Root canal therapy is lengthy and complicated

Another myth about root canal therapy is that it is a lengthy and complicated procedure. This is not true. The length of the procedure depends on the extent of the damage to the tooth and the number of roots involved. In most cases, root canal therapy can be completed in one or two visits to the dentist, and patients can return to their normal activities in a few days. Many patients can return to work the next day. Technology advancements have also made the procedure faster and more efficient, reducing the time patients have to spend in the dental chair.

Myth 5: Root canal therapy is expensive

Finally, some people believe that root canal therapy is expensive, but this is not necessarily true. The cost of the procedure depends on several factors, including the type of tooth being treated and the extent of the damage. Root canal therapy is more cost-effective in many cases than other dental treatments, such as tooth extraction and replacement with a dental implant. When considering the cost, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of root canal therapy, as it can help preserve the natural tooth and prevent future dental problems.

At Nuttall Smiles in Auburn, Washington, we understand how the thought of a root canal can be alarming, but it doesn’t have to be. When done by an experienced, highly qualified dentist like Dr. Nuttall, a root canal can restore dental health and save your natural tooth. Call us today to schedule an appointment. Let’s get you smiling again!