5 myths about root canal treatment

Category: Dental treatment · 7 February 2019

Just the words “root canal treatment” are enough to send a shiver down many people’s spines. The image of a patient clutching a badly swollen cheek and groaning in pain has been fuelled by film, television and cartoons. But does this image reflect reality? Of course not.

That’s why today we’re debunking 5 myths about root canals and putting the facts on the table instead.

Why do you need root canal treatment?

Why does root canal treatment become necessary in the first place?

There can be various reasons. The most common are:

Broken or damaged teeth
Deep cavities in the tooth
An abscess
Trauma

If the tooth root has become inflamed or infected, this is a sign that bacteria have been able to get in through damaged tooth enamel.

This infection leads to painful swelling and tenderness to pressure.

Myth no. 1: “Anything to do with the tooth root always hurts”

Root canals don’t cause pain – they relieve it! With today’s modern anaesthesia and technology, a root canal is no more painful than a simple filling.

With an injection, your dentist makes sure you don’t feel anything and can relax. She then removes the infected tooth tissue that is causing the pain. After cleaning, she fills the hole again to protect the tooth from invading bacteria and repairs the enamel with a filling. Sometimes the tooth is sealed with a crown instead.

Myth no. 2: It’s best to have the damaged tooth removed

A tooth extraction should always be the very last resort. No artificial dental implant is as good as your own teeth. Your dentist should always strive to save the tooth. Thanks to root canal treatment, it is possible to keep the tooth alive.

Myth no. 3: You only need root canal treatment if the tooth hurts

Sometimes a root infection has become so severe that the tooth actually dies. You may no longer feel any pain, but the infection is still there and is damaging the underlying bone structure. Even at this point, a root canal can still save the tooth structure itself. Routine dental check-ups are important for spotting signs of a dental infection and treating it before it becomes painful and causes damage.

Myth no. 4: Root canals require several visits to the dentist

Most root canal treatments can be completed within a few hours. If there is no serious infection, your dentist should be able to discharge you after one or two treatments. You may need to come back to the practice once to have the tooth permanently filled or a crown fitted. The condition of the tooth and the severity of the infection determine how much treatment time is needed.

Myth no. 5: Infections are common after root canal treatment

A repeat infection of the tooth root can happen, but it is uncommon. If the infection comes back, further treatment is needed. However, the latest filling materials have been specially developed to reduce the likelihood of reinfection.

So that’s 5 myths debunked. The fact is that you no longer need to fear root canal treatment.

The next time your dentist says the dreaded words, spare yourself the palpitations. This procedure can save your tooth and secure your oral health in just one or two appointments. Isn’t that fabulous!

If you feel anxious or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to talk to us. Many dental practices now specialise in anxious patients – you are not alone.

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