5 Common Myths About Root Canal Treatment
The Endodontists are dentists who specialize in root canal treatment. Root canal is a procedure that’s used for treating a diseased or infected tooth. Under the hard outer layer of the enamel and dentin, there is soft tissue known as pulp which consists of nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels.
Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected because of deep decay, bad crown, or a crack in the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can get worst and may need further surgical interventions.
Root canal treatment is painful.
It’s one of the common myths associated with root canal treatment. However, the procedure is virtually pain free. Root canal treatment in fact relieves pain as it removes the pulp which is the source of pain. Root canals are not what they used to be few decades ago. Advanced dentistry, technology, equipment, and anesthesia make modern root canal treatment painless.
Root canal procedure requires several visits to the dental clinic.
Most people believe that tooth extraction is better as it’s quicker. However, that’s not true. If you opt for extraction, you will also need a dental implant. If the tooth extraction is followed by the placement of an implant, you’ll need to make several visits. Root canal needs only 1 to 3 visits depending on the condition of the tooth.
A root canal “kills” the tooth.
A root canal cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth to allow it to heal. It doesn’t kill a tooth.
Root canal procedure is not very successful
The root canal procedures have about 95% success rate if treated by an Endodontist. As long as the tooth and surrounding gums are kept healthy with good oral hygiene, the natural tooth can last for a lifetime without any further treatment.
Root canal treatment causes illness
It was believed that root canal caused other illness throughout the body. It was based on a research that took place almost a century ago. There’s no valid scientific evidence supporting the research to date. Root canals are designed to fight infection not cause it.