Common myths about root canal treatment busted!

For many people the thought of root canal treatment can make them feel uneasy or fearful, because it is typically associated with pain or discomfort. This however is not true!

In this month’s blog the team at Valley Dental Practice look to dispel some of the most common myths surrounding root canal treatment.

Myth 1: Root canal treatment is painful.

Historically, root canal treatments were perceived as highly painful pr ocedures; however, advancements in technology and anaesthetics now allow them to be performed with minimal discomfort, comparable to that experienced during a standard dental filling.

Patients typically seek the expertise of a dentist or endodontist (root canal specialist) when experiencing severe toothache, often due to damaged tissues within the tooth. Root canal treatment effectively removes the compromised tissue, thus alleviating the associated pain.

Myth 2: You only need root canal treatment if you are in pain.

Sometimes teeth that have died no longer cause pain and need to have root canal treatment in order to avoid becoming infected. Dentists have several tests, including temperature testing and percussion testing, that allow them to know when a tooth has died and needs to receive root canal treatment.

Myth 3: Root canal treatment causes illness.

You may find information on the internet, claiming that undergoing root canal treatment makes you more susceptible to illness or disease in the future, this simply is not true! This false claim was based on research conducted nearly a century ago, long before modern medicine understood the causes of many illnesses. There is no valid scientific evidence linking root canal treatment to disease elsewhere in the body.

Myth 4: Root canal treatments only last a short time.

Root canal treatment results are long-lasting and effective in alleviating toothaches while preserving the affected tooth indefinitely. The success of this treatment largely depends on the final restoration or crown applied. A properly constructed and well-fitted crown, combined with consistent at-home oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits, can ensure the longevity of the treated tooth for a lifetime.

Myth 5: It is better to have a tooth extracted than have root canal treatment.

Maintaining natural teeth is always the ideal choice. No artificial replacement, regardless of its quality, can fully replicate the functionality of a natural tooth. Root canal treatment boasts a high success rate, with many treated teeth remaining functional for a lifetime. Conversely, bridges, dental implants, and other replacement options necessitate additional procedures, increased chair time, and higher costs.

Millions of healthy root canal treated teeth serve patients all over the world, years and years after treatment. Those healthy teeth are helping patients chew efficiently, maintain the natural appearance of their smiles and enhance their enjoyment of life.

Through root canal treatment, dentists worldwide enable patients to keep their natural teeth for a lifetime.

If you need more information or would like to discuss how root canal treatment can help to save your natural teeth call Valley Dental Practice on 01255 220322and book a consultation.