Although root canal therapy is an incredibly effective and common solution for toothaches, many people fear that this treatment will be long and agonizing. Unfortunately, several “commonly known” falsehoods about this service are circulating in the public that might make you nervous about scheduling your procedure.
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, continue reading to learn 3 myths about them that you shouldn’t believe!
Myth #1: It Will Inevitably Hurt
There are plenty of portrayals in the media depicting patients undergoing massive amounts of pain during root canal procedures, and it’s natural to want to avoid having a similar experience in real life. Thankfully, today, this service is known to alleviate more issues than it causes.
Root canals are the standard treatment for severe or persistent toothaches caused by damage, disease, or infection. It’s an effective way for your dentist to remove damaged materials to prevent them from affecting your other teeth, your gums, or your jawbone, to preserve your oral health. Plus, many providers offer sedatives, like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you feel comfortable throughout your appointment.
Myth #2: You Don’t Need One If Your Tooth Stops Hurting
If you visited the dentist with a toothache and learned you needed a root canal, but then your tooth stopped hurting, you might assume that your condition improved and the treatment is no longer necessary.
However, that’s not usually the case. Many toothaches are caused by bacteria that penetrate the tender roots of your teeth to cause infection, triggering a painful reaction in the nerves. Unfortunately, dental issues tend to get worse rather than resolve themselves, so if the throbbing suddenly subsides, it might not be a good sign. It’s more likely that the nerves have died and can no longer send pain signals to your brain, though the illness remains and must still be treated to avoid similar injuries to neighboring teeth.
Myth #3: Extraction is a Good Alternative
Many patients who are afraid of root canals assume that having their troublesome tooth removed is a viable alternative. While they may be true in some circumstances, it’s important to remember that additional complications can arise from tooth loss, even if the removal was deliberate.
For example, your jawbone begins to thin when teeth are lost, which can lead to further loss over time. Not only that, but the ones left behind are likely to shift out of alignment, increasing their vulnerability to cavities and injuries. Meanwhile, root canal therapy repairs your existing tooth so you can continue using it normally, helping preserve your oral health.
If you have additional questions or concerns about your procedure, your provider can provide more accurate information based on your individual circumstances.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Craig Harder is passionate about helping families in Moses Lake build and maintain the most beautiful, healthiest versions of their smiles. He earned his dental degree from Creighton University, and today, has 20 years of experience providing a comprehensive menu of services, including root canals. If you’re anxious about your upcoming appointment, he offers nitrous oxide sedation to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your procedure. You can request an appointment on the website or call (509) 765-4351.