Root Canals: Sorting the Myths From the Facts

Root canal treatments are possibly the least-loved dental treatments. It’s fair to say that most people would rather not have one. Of course, you’ll only have to have one if you actually ever need one.

The good news is that there’s lots of misinformation about root canals. The bad news is that there’s lots of misinformation— and it’s hard to know what’s fact and what’s fiction.

So, what do you need to know if you're faced with root canal treatment? How do you know what to expect?

In this guide, we’ve compiled some of the most common myths about root canal treatments, so you can rest easy knowing they’re not at all like people make out!

Myth: Root Canal Treatment Is Painful

Root canal treatments are necessary if you have infected dental pulp. Inside each tooth is a pulp chamber. This chamber contains a mixture of connective tissue, nerve endings, and other cells. It’s your tooth’s living core, and bacteria can creep in and cause infection when you've got cavities.

When infection strikes, it brings pain. When people talk about root canals being painful, it’s the infection itself that’s painful. Before the procedure, we’ll give you an anaesthetic. This ensures the actual root canal treatment won’t hurt.

Myth: You Only Need Root Canal Treatment When You’re In Pain

Although a striking toothache is the most common sign of a root canal infection, you might not experience pain continuously. If the dental pulp has already died, it won’t cause pain.

So, if you’ve had a toothache that’s stopped, it’s still best to get it checked out as we can still help.

Myth: Root Canal Treatment Takes Several Appointments

Many people dread root canal treatments because they think it takes several long appointments. Usually, we can perform the procedure in one sitting. The length of your procedure will vary depending on the extent of the infection and how many of your tooth’s root canals are infected.

In some cases, we may suggest returning later so we can place a crown on the tooth to protect it from further damage.

Myth: It’s Better to Remove a Tooth

People may suggest that they’d rather have a tooth extracted than go through a root canal treatment. Removing a tooth should only ever be the last resort.

Once a tooth has been extracted, if it’s not replaced, the neighbouring teeth could start slipping into the gap. Not only that, but jawbone resorption, gum disease, and tooth decay are risk factors when losing a tooth.

The root canal treatment itself involves us entering your tooth through a tiny hole. Once inside, we’ll remove the infected pulp and bacteria. After we’ve finished, we’ll use a gutta-percha, a naturally-occurring rubber-like material to plug the inside of the tooth.

Myth: Root Canal Treatment Isn’t a Permanent Solution

Modern dentistry means that treatments are more reliable than ever. We use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure we’re thorough in getting all of the infected material out from inside of your tooth.

Once we’ve finished the procedure and closed up your tooth, as long as you practice good hygiene, avoid sugary food and drink, and visit us often, it’ll be possible to avoid having a repeat infection in that tooth.

Root Canals at Kreate Dental

A root canal infection can be excruciating. Not only that, but if it’s left untreated, it can kill a tooth and cause an abscess. Early treatment is essential. At Kreate Dental, we’re here to help.

If you’re concerned that you might need a root canal treatment, call us today and schedule an appointment.